Rotherham Healthwave has announced an expansion of its Stop Smoking Service, offering residents greater choice and support to help them quit smoking for good.
Following the successful introduction of varenicline last year, the service has achieved a marked improvement with an additional 124 4-week quitters compared to the same time last year. Following the introduction of varenicline, Rotherham now accounts for approximately one in every 100 stop smoking prescriptions issued in England. The current average quit rate for Rotherham is 72%, which is better than the national average
How do the medications work-
Varenicline works by targeting nicotine receptors in the brain. If you smoke while taking varenicline, the cigarette feels less rewarding or satisfying. By both easing cravings and reducing the pleasurable effects of smoking, varenicline helps break the cycle of nicotine dependence and supports people to quit smoking.
The service is introducing two additional medications—cytisine and Zyban to provide alternative options for individuals seeking tailored support.
Cytisine also works by acting on the nicotine receptors in the brain, similar to varenicline, making smoking less pleasurable
Bupropion (brand name Zyban) works by affecting chemicals in the brain that are involved in nicotine dependency. Zyban, reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, low mood, and difficulty concentrating. It makes quitting easier by decreasing the urge to smoke and making withdrawal more manageable,
When combined with behavioural support or counselling, these medications are very effective in supporting smokers to quit. Evidence shows that combining behavioural support with treatment makes you up to three times more likely to quit than going it alone. Specialist support helps people understand their triggers, how to plan, and stay motivated.
From April, smokers in Rotherham who enrol in the programme will be able to access this full range of stop smoking medicines. Prescriptions are issued by an in-house prescriber and can be sent directly to the patient’s chosen pharmacy, improving convenience and accessibility. There is no need to contact your GP.
The service continues to offer a wide range of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). These include products like nicotine gum, patches, sprays, inhalators and lozenges, as well as access to a 12-week vaping kit. These tools act as stepping-stones, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms while people work towards quitting for good.
Stopping smoking can be challenging, so the service offers a mix of flexible support options tailored to real lives. These include face-to-face appointments, daytime or evening telephone sessions, group support, and drop-in clinics. This personalised approach helps people lay strong building blocks — the tools, confidence and guidance they need to succeed.
A spokesperson for Rotherham Healthwave said:
“Everyone’s journey to quitting smoking is different, which is why we are committed to offering a wide range of treatment and support options. By expanding our service, we aim to give people in Rotherham the best possible chance of quitting for good.”
Residents interested in accessing the service can complete a simple online referral form at https://rotherham-healthwave.connecthealthcarerotherham.co.uk or contact the Hub team on 01709 718720 for more information.
The Rotherham Stop Smoking service is delivered by Connect Healthcare and is funded by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council