Hazel Cheeseman, Martin Dockrell and Debbie Millward
Presenter(s)
Hazel Cheeseman Special Projects Advisor, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), London
Abstract
The evidence of why we need to take action and what work’s to make a difference is strong and clear in tobacco control. The UK is leading the world and smoking rates continue to fall year on year. With such a shining record we should have nothing to fear from the changes to the public health system. However, the future is unpredictable – while there are great opportunities there are many risks and pitfalls which could halt the progress we have made. Tobacco control needs to keep step with these changes. This presentation sets out a vision for local tobacco control and the practical steps ASH is taking to support local tobacco advocates. The approach is made up of three mutually reinforcing strands:
1. Consistent strategic engagement
2. Local, regional and national networks of support
3. Securing political buy-in
Local tobacco control is not new. This approach distils the skills and experiences of the best to provide a framework for all localities. It also takes account of the changing landscape of public health acknowledging that what has driven progress in the past may no longer exist, but that change also provides us with opportunities to achieve progress more quickly than ever before.
Source of funding: British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK
