Starting in April 2026, Reed Wellbeing have launched a new 6-week Nicotine Cessation Service, commissioned by Leeds City Council as part of the Leeds Stop Smoking Service offering. This new offering will support thousands of people to achieve nicotine cessation through a mix of behavioural support and treatment options (where appropriate).
What is Nicotine?
Nicotine is an addictive substance that is found in tobacco products. When used in their purest form, for example, in nicotine e-cigarettes or NRT, they provide treatment support to aid someone coming off a tobacco product and can support in the aid of a successful quit. Nicotine in its purest forms is fine to use, however more people are choosing to consume this addictive substance despite not previously using tobacco.
Why is this service needed?
As we move closer to achieving a smokefree generation, we continue to see encouraging declines in tobacco use. However, it is important to acknowledge that there is an increasing need to support those who wish to stop nicotine consumption. There is also increasing evidence of people using nicotine products in circumstances where they have never smoked before, which is alarming, and should be addressed as there should be no reason for those who have never smoked or consumed tobacco to use nicotine.
The facts
Data from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) indicate that 0.9% of adults in Great Britain (approximately 260,000 individuals) currently vape despite never using tobacco. In addition, ASH’s youth survey shows that around 20% of 11–17‑year‑olds have tried nicotine e‑cigarettes, with most not being ex‑smokers. This evidence reinforces the importance of stop smoking services in supporting wider nicotine cessation.
Aims of the service:
Help people aged 15 and over to stop using nicotine and feel confident staying nicotine‑free
Offer a choice of evidence-based behavioural support and treatment options
Support people who want to stop using nicotine cigarettes, nicotine pouches or other nicotine products such as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Make sure people who have never smoked, know they can access support to quit nicotine
Eligibility:
Be aged 15 years or over
Currently using a nicotine product, e.g. nicotine pouches, NRT and/or nicotine e-cigarettes (regardless of if they are an ex-smoker or have never smoked)
Ready to quit nicotine use
Live in the Leeds area and/or registered to a Leeds GP
How do I refer myself or someone else?
If you are interested in referring yourself or someone else to this service, please visit Nicotine Cessation Service | Leeds Stop Smoking Services or call 0800 169 4219 for more information.
Let’s take the next step together towards becoming a smoke AND nicotine free generation.