An ex-smoker who finally kicked the habit after 40 years thanks to support from Solihull Stop Smoking Service has urged those looking to quit to seek help and make their New Year’s resolution stick in 2015.

Sheila Masmoudi, from Solihull, took the step last summer to quit smoking following a health scare. Attempts in the past to give up had proved unsuccessful but this time she had support from Solihull Stop Smoking Service, part of the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust.

The 67-year-old attended the service’s drop-in clinic at Hobs Moat Library in Solihull back in June last year and she said that thanks to the support from advisors she hasn’t looked back since.

She said: “I had not been very well and it had been a bit of a wake up call that I had to look after my health. I lost my husband when he was 50 and my daughter was only 15 at the time and I’m all she has now so it is important I think about my health.

“I had been smoking on and off for 40 years. I had tried several times to quit but this time I was determined and I had the support from the advisors at the clinic who were absolutely fabulous.

“I decided to go to the drop-in clinic as it was on a Saturday morning which fitted in well with my work and it was on my doorstep really. I haven’t smoked since and it has made a big difference to my life.”

Sheila’s daughter has also benefitted from the support of the advisors at the Hobs Moat drop-in and Sheila encouraged anyone in the area looking to kick the habit to go along.

She added: “My daughter stopped three months ago after going to the drop-in clinic. She loves the staff and they have really kept her going.

“I would definitely encourage all people thinking of stopping smoking to go to the clinic as the advisors are great with all ages. They are really positive and encouraging and don’t make you feel bad if you slip up or have the craving. They are literally a breath of fresh air.”

Sarah Stables, Solihull Stop Smoking Service manager, said: “The beginning of a new year brings a fresh start and a desire to break old habits. The urge to quit smoking is top of many people’s list when it comes to New Year’s resolutions and we want the local community to know support is available.

“The drop-in clinics have proved really useful as they fit in well around people’s lifestyles and offer great advice and support. It is wonderful to hear Sheila’s success story and that is testament both to her drive and willpower, as well as the support of our team.

“Smokers are four times more likely to give up smoking with the help of the NHS than on their own so I would encourage anyone thinking about giving up to come and see us.”

The clinic at Hobs Moat Library, in Ulleries Road, Solihull, takes place on Saturday’s from 10am to 1pm. Full details of all the drop-in clinics run by Solihull Stop Smoking Service can be found below. Clinic times are subject to change so please call 0121 713 8915 to confirm. Further information about quitting smoking is available by calling on 0121 704 6000 or visit www.solihullstopsmoking.co.uk

*Drop-in sessions held by Solihull Stop Smoking Service:

• Fridays 4pm-7pm, Chelmsley Wood Primary Care Centre, Crab Tree Drive, Chelmsley Wood, B37 5BU.
• Saturdays 10am-Midday, The Woodmans Public House, Union Road, Shirley, B90 3DB.
• Saturdays 10am-1pm, You + Shop, 1 Coppice Way, Chelmsley Wood, B37 5TX.
• Wednesdays 2pm-5.30pm, You + Shop, 1 Coppice Way, Chelmsley Wood, B37 5TX.
• Saturdays 10am-1pm, Hobs Moat Library, Ulleries Road, Solihull, B92 8EB.
• Tuesdays 6pm-8pm, Toby Jug, 489 Chester Road, B36 0JV.