Ongo and North Lincolnshire Council partner to launch huge health initiative for smokers

Ongo, in collaboration with North Lincolnshire Council, is excited to announce a new health project aimed at supporting at least 200 people a year to stop smoking.

This initiative, which launches this month, focuses on improving the lives, wellbeing, and health of local people and their families, whilst empowering them to make positive change.

According to the NHS, despite rates declining, there are nearly six million adults in England who still smoke, and this remains the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death.

Treating illnesses associated with smoking costs the NHS an annual £2.4 billion, with the wider cost to society in England being approximately £17 billion a year.

North Lincolnshire Council recognised Ongo’s trusted relationship with the community and unique position to reach thousands of people and significantly contribute to their mission of smoking cessation.

As a result, Ongo has been awarded the £174,000 contract for two years, with potential for additional funding.

Those taking part will have access to support sessions, free resources including vapes and one-on-one and telephone contact, working closely with Public Health, particularly the Healthy Lifestyle team.

Events across the region will also take place to engage with and educate local people on the risks associated with smoking.

Jan Williams, Head of Opportunities at Ongo said: “We are thrilled to partner with North Lincolnshire Council on this vital health project and would like to thank them for choosing us to deliver it.

“We know it’s extremely addictive and the health impacts are huge, so we want to do all we can to help.

“By supporting our tenants and their families in quitting, we are not only improving their health but also enhancing their overall wellbeing and saving them potentially thousands of pounds each year too.”

Once this project is established, Ongo will also support the local campaign for MMR vaccines for children, further contributing to their mission of supporting the community.

Diane Lee, Director of Public Health at North Lincolnshire Council said “This is an innovative project to reduce the harm caused by smoking and we are delighted that Ongo has agreed to take on the challenge to work with us. This work will improve the health of local people and make a real difference to their wellbeing.”

For more information about the project or to get involved, please contact Carol Richardson, Wellbeing Team Leader at Ongo on 01724 279000 or carol.richardson@ongo.co.uk, or Greg Gough, Senior Public Health Manager at North Lincolnshire Council on Greg.Gough@northlincs.gov.uk.