From today (Monday 1 September), BSMHFT is officially smoke-free across all of its 50+ sites.

To mark the launch, the Trust has shared a brand-new animation that uses poetry and visuals to explain why this change matters and how patients, service users and staff can access support to quit.

The move is part of a wider commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of patients, service users, staff, and visitors. Smoking rates among people with mental health conditions are more than 50% higher than in the general population, contributing to a reduced life expectancy of between 7 and 25 years. Contrary to common assumptions, people with severe mental illness are just as motivated to quit smoking as anyone else.

Admission to BSMHFT presents a valuable opportunity to support people in quitting. Evidence shows that stopping smoking can lead to fewer readmissions, better physical health, and improved mental wellbeing – reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, with some studies suggesting benefits comparable to antidepressant medication.

With the launch of the smoke-free policy, smoke breaks on wards will no longer be facilitated and smoking in any outdoor areas and entrances will not be permitted.

To ensure inpatients are supported, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) will be prescribed within 30 minutes of admission. Staff nurses and nurse associates can now dispense up to three days’ worth of NRT under the Patient Group Directive (PGD), making access easier and faster.

BSMHFT’s Deputy Chief Executive, Patrick Nyarumbu MBE, said:

“Smoke-free BSMHFT is a vital step in prioritising the physical and mental health of our patients and service users and creating a safer, healthier environment for everyone at BSMHFT.

“We know that people with mental health conditions face significantly higher risks from smoking. We also recognise how hard it is for some to quit which is why we are committed to offering immediate, compassionate support from the moment someone is admitted.”

To support patients, service users and staff, the Trust has a Tobacco Dependency team that is on hand to provide support and guidance. They offer nicotine replacement therapy, advice on vaping, emotional support, discharge planning, and group sessions. Inpatients can speak to any staff member for a referral.

Service users being cared for in the community can also access support through the Tobacco Dependency team or via local services. Additional guidance is also available via Birmingham City Council and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council at https://lightupyourlife.today.

The Trust first introduced a smoking ban in 2016, but limited smoking was temporarily permitted in some garden areas during the COVID-19 pandemic. This exemption has now been fully withdrawn. For support with tobacco dependency, help is at hand across Birmingham and Solihull.