A Smoke free Spaces Toolkit has been launched to help businesses and other organisations ensure their workplaces are smoke free and to support their workers to quit the habit.

It has been developed by NHS Greater Manchester and the Greater Manchester Public Health Network in partnership with councils in the region and has been tested by eight charity, community and faith organisations.

Among findings to emerge from the pilot was the need to avoid an “enforcement-led approach” and instead focus on a “communications-led approach centred on positive messaging, engagement and supporting people to understand the change”.

“As a result, the toolkit places a strong emphasis on communications planning, stakeholder engagement, signage, conversation guides and practical implementation tools,” say organisers.

The 40-page toolkit includes

•     Step-by-step guidance on creating a Smokefree Space
•     Stakeholder engagement and communications resources
•     Template policies and implementation tools
•     Conversation guides and signposting information
•     Editable signage and promotional materials
•     Evaluation resources and implementation checklists
•     Case studies and lessons learned from participating organisations

"As smoking becomes less common, the challenge becomes more complex,” said Oldham Council’s director of public health Rebecca Fletcher.

“We know we must continue supporting people to quit and preventing young people from starting, but we also need to create environments that support healthier choices and healthier communities."

She added: “What makes this toolkit unique is that it has been developed alongside organisations that have implemented Smokefree Spaces themselves.

“It captures practical experience, lessons learned and real-world solutions that other organisations can apply within their own settings."

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