North Mid strengthens its commitment to improving health outcomes with the Smokefree Pledge
Last week, North Mid took a significant step in promoting health and well being by signing the NHS Smokefree Pledge. This pledge is a clear commitment to tackling tobacco dependence and creating a healthier environment for our patients, staff, and the wider community.
Our leadership team, including Chief Executive Nnenna Osuji, Medical Director Vicky Jones, and Chairman Mark Lam, signed the pledge on behalf of North Mids. Demonstrating our collective commitment to making North Mid a healthier place for everyone.
Why this matters to us
We all know the devastating impact smoking has on health. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the UK. By addressing tobacco dependence within our hospital, we can make a substantial difference in reducing health inequalities and improving overall community health. The pledge aligns with the Government's ambition to make England smokefree by 2030 and supports the NHS Long Term Plan's goals for smoking cessation. This initiative is not just about our hospital; it’s about making a broader impact. In Enfield, smoking rates remain high – the highest in London, particularly among disadvantaged groups. North Mid is plays a crucial role in addressing health disparities. Our efforts help create a healthier community, leading to better health outcomes for everyone.
Our commitments
By signing the pledge, north mid commits to several key actions:
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Treat tobacco dependence: we will continue to provide evidence based treatments for tobacco dependence to both patients and staff, ensuring everyone has the support they need to quit smoking.
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Access to medication: smokers within our care will have access to licensed stop smoking medications in line with nice guidelines.
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Smokefree environment: we are dedicated to maintaining a smokefree environment that supports quitting smoking through our policies.
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Consistent messaging: we will consistently communicate the health risks of smoking and the benefits of quitting.
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Community collaboration: we will work closely with local authorities and other stakeholders to reduce smoking prevalence and tackle health inequalities.
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Protection from tobacco industry influence: we will protect our tobacco control work from the influence of the tobacco industry.
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Support for national action: we will support government actions at the national level to reduce smoking.
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Public commitment: by joining the Smokefree Action Coalition, we publicise our commitment to reducing smoking and its harms.
A message from the Smokefree division
Vhenekayi, Head of Strategy and Partneships who leads the Smokefree Division, shared her thoughts: "It’s great to see North Mid join many NHS Trusts and ICBs in signing up to the NHS Smokefree Pledge. We are making great strides in embedding a smokefree North Mid culture as one of the key priorities under the Patient First Theme – Partnerships, and still have plenty to do in bringing our staff, patients, and visitors on this journey for what is an important health agenda recognised nationally and internationally. I’d like to thank the Tobacco Dependency Team for their fantastic work, bringing a high-quality service to patients and supporting our staff. I’d also like to thank our Chair, Chief Executive, and Medical Director for signing the pledge to show our leadership commitment to this agenda."