Smoking affects LGBTQ+ communities disproportionately, but getting the right help to stop can make a real difference.
Queer as Smoke is an LGBTQ+ focused stop-smoking campaign across Calderdale and Kirklees. We want to start open conversations about smoking, challenge some of the myths around quitting and make it easier to find support that feels welcoming, inclusive and right for you.
Whether you are ready to stop, thinking about cutting down or simply want to understand your options, support is available.
Why Queer as Smoke?
There are lots of reasons why smoking can become part of people's lives.
For LGBTQ+ people, experiences including stress, poor mental health, discrimination, isolation and social pressures can all play a part. Smoking has also historically been closely linked with LGBTQ+ social spaces and communities.
Queer as Smoke isn't about judging people who smoke. It is about recognising those experiences and making sure LGBTQ+ people know what support is available when they decide they want to make a change.
Thinking about stopping?
You don't have to rely on willpower alone.
Professional stop-smoking support can help you understand your triggers, manage cravings and find the approach that suits you. This could include one-to-one support, nicotine replacement products, medication or switching completely from smoking to vaping.
With professional help, you are around three times more likely to quit for good.
Find support near you
Kirklees
If you live in Kirklees, you can access free support through Kirklees Wellness Service, alongside other tools and resources to help you stop smoking.
Find stop-smoking support in Kirklees
Calderdale
If you live in Calderdale, Yorkshire Smokefree Calderdale offers specialist support through face-to-face, telephone and online appointments.
You may also be able to access vaping support to help you stop smoking.
Find stop-smoking support in Calderdale
However you do it, every attempt counts
Stopping smoking isn't always a single event. Some people stop first time and others make several attempts.
Each attempt can help you understand what works for you.
If you've tried before, that doesn't mean you can't succeed. Support is there whenever you feel ready to try again.
Queer As Smoke - Kirklees
Queer as Smoke Kirklees brings together clear information on local stop-smoking services, making it easier for LGBTQ+ people in Kirklees to find support that feels safe, inclusive and tailored to their needs.
Queer As Smoke - Calderdale
Queer as Smoke Calderdale is delivered through a proud partnership between Yorkshire Smokefree Service and Brunswick, supported by Calderdale Council Public Health.
Together, we’re working to make stop-smoking support more visible, more inclusive and easier to access for LGBTQ+ people across Calderdale.
Swap to Stop
Switching completely from cigarettes to vaping can help some people stop smoking.
Find out about the support and vaping options available locally.
Creative Minds Calderdale Project
Queer as Smoke has also worked with Creative Minds to explore smoking, wellbeing and LGBTQ+ communities through creative activities, conversations and events.
