York continues to lead the way in public health
York continues to lead the way in public health, with adult smoking rates now at just 6.7% — the 8th lowest in the country, according to the latest data from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.
York’s Health Trainer Service has played a key role by offering free, personalised support to help residents quit smoking and improve their health, including free vapes and or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), alongside behavioural change advice.
Despite progress smoking still causes around 2,500 premature deaths each year in Humber and North Yorkshire. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to create a smokefree generation — and expert support is available to help people quit.
The Health Trainer team were recently recognised as one of the top performing stop smoking services in the country, and continues to play a vital role in supporting residents to lead healthier lives.
The team offers free, personalised support to help people quit smoking, improve diet and physical activity, and manage long-term health conditions.
Councillor Lucy Steels Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said:
York’s continued progress in reducing smoking rates is a testament to the dedication of our Health Trainers and the commitment of residents to lead healthier lives. Every person who stops smoking is taking a powerful step toward better health — for themselves and their families.
Glyn Newberry, Public Health Manager at City of York Council, added:
We’re proud to support people in York to make lasting changes. Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but with the right help, it’s absolutely achievable. These figures show what’s possible when services work together and people feel empowered to take control of their health.
Pete Milner, a grandad and HGV driver from the Stockton Lane area of York, stopped smoking after 50 years by using free nicotine patches with support from York Health Trainers.
He decided to quit after a diagnosis of COPD and his symptoms started improving within weeks.
Pete said:
I was struggling to breathe and had a really awful cough. I quit over six weeks ago and the difference you can tell after the first two weeks – your breathing starts getting a bit easier. I used to wheeze a lot I’m not even wheezing at all now and I’m sleeping better.
"If anybody is thinking about quitting, please contact the York Health Trainers, they have been really supportive. Yes it’s hard work, it’s not easy, but I haven’t had a cigarette in over six weeks now and the support that I’ve had – I can’t fault it!”
Read more stop smoking stories online.
This latest milestone reflects a broader regional trend, with Humber and North Yorkshire smoking rates falling to a record low of 11.7%, down from 12.7% last year. That’s nearly 15,000 fewer smokers across the region.
This work complements regional efforts led by NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, which established the Centre for Excellence in Tobacco Control in 2023. This initiative coordinates anti-smoking strategies across the region, including the Breathe Collaborative — a partnership of 15 local authorities working together to reduce tobacco harm.
However, challenges remain. Smoking continues to be the leading cause of preventable death in England, responsible for up to 2,500 premature deaths annually across Humber and North Yorkshire. It also costs the region nearly £1.4 billion each year in lost productivity, sick leave, and NHS treatment.
You’re three times more likely to quit with support. Get in touch today with our Health Trainers for free help and support.