Stop smoking support

Help from registered GPs and pharmacies

All stop smoking services in Barnet are provided by an accredited stop smoking practitioner at registered 

GP surgeries

and 

pharmacies

You can go to any of the listed pharmacies, but if you would like to attend a GP surgery you must be registered as a patient at that practice.

Treatment

You will receive up to 6 weeks of free behavioural support with your advisor, you may have to pay for any prescriptions you might need. We can offer you advice on the most cost-effective way to get the medication that you require.

The stop smoking advisor will:

1. Discuss the treatment options with you
2. Advise you on a range of replacement therapy, medications and e-cigarettes
3. Support you to set a quit date and agree treatment options
4. Offer you weekly consultations, where you will be able to discuss your progress
5. Work with you to overcome any challenges fighting cravings and helping you remain 100% smoke free
6. Monitor your progress with regular carbon monoxide breath tests

Electronic Cigarettes/Vaping (E-cigs/Vapes)

Electronic cigarettes provide nicotine without the harmful chemicals from cigarette smoke, in a similar way to Nicotine Replacement Therapies (patches/gum/sprays etc.). More info on using e-cigarettes . Experts agree that they are 95% safer than continuing to smoke.

They are not currently available on prescription from the stop smoking service but, if you would like to use them, we fully support them being included in your quit attempt as they provide nicotine and behavioural support for you while you quit the cigarettes. Talk to your Stop Smoking Advisor and they will guide you on the best ways to get the most out of vaping.

It is important to always buy vape equipment from reputable retailers, you can search here for those in your area.

Telephone Support

Stop Smoking London provides a dedicated telephone service for anyone wanting to stop. This option may be easier, as you can access it anywhere and at a more flexible time.  Note that medications will not be available from this service so you will need to source them yourself.

You can call the helpline between 9am to 8pm (Mon-Fri) and 11am to 4pm (Sat-Sun), to speak to a specially trained advisor (stating that you are a London resident).

Stop Smoking London Helpline: 0300 123 1044

Apps

Mobile phone apps can be a helpful tool for many people, you can find a variety of these here

Frequently asked questions

Referrals

You do not need a referral to access the services.

Appointment and walk-ins

If you are attending your GP surgery you will need to make an appointment. You do not need to make an appointment to be seen at a pharmacy but calling ahead will ensure that the advisor is available.

If I go to a pharmacy will I receive an assessment on the same day?

Yes, if there's a stop smoking advisor available.

Does the service include group treatment?

No, currently all support is one-to-one but group sessions will be available at some venues over the coming year, please email us for further information.

Will I be expected to go into the pharmacy or my GP every week?

It is important that you come in at least twice over the 5 weeks for a face-to-face appointment. Then the advisor can answer any questions, check if you need further support and retest your carbon monoxide levels. Other appointments can take place over the phone if necessary.

For general enquiries about the Smoking Cessation Service, please use smokingcessation@barnet.gov.uk or contact your GP or pharmacy directly.