TV star, singer, and actor Kym Marsh has teamed up with the NHS for a powerful new campaign, urging the UK’s six million smokers to make a quit attempt this No Smoking Day (12 March).
In a touching new film, the former Coronation Street star opens up about her journey to breaking free from smoking—an addiction that once dictated her daily routine.
“Quitting smoking is not simply about breaking a habit; it’s about reclaiming control over your life, health and the future you share with your loved ones,” said Kym, who started smoking as a teenager but successfully quit several years ago.
Encouraging others to kick the habit for good, she said: “The decision to quit is one of the most empowering choices you can make.”
“It's not an easy journey but knowing that your decision benefits both your own well-being and the health of those around you, particularly your family, makes it all the more worthwhile”
The campaign also features other ex-smokers, including cancer survivor Sue Mountain, who delivers a heartfelt plea to smokers.
“Don’t wait for a wake-up call - make today the day you quit for good. I don’t want one person going through what I did.”
“You can’t ever stop trying to quit because smoking will catch up with you sooner or later. You’ve got to keep trying to stop. It’s worth it!” she added.
The campaign coincides with the landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently making its way through Parliament. The world-leading bill includes measures to create the first smokefree generation, phasing out the sale of tobacco products across the UK to those aged 16 and under this year.
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The Impact of Smoking
Ashley Dalton, minister for public health and prevention, highlighted that smoking remains the UK's biggest preventable cause of death, claiming around 80,000 lives every year - equivalent to 220 people every day.
Dalton, who quit smoking after receiving a cancer diagnosis, shared her personal experience:“I know firsthand how challenging it can be to break free from nicotine addiction.”
“But I also know that it's possible, and the health benefits begin from day one - adding years to your life and putting money back in your pocket.”
Dalton assured smokers that no matter how long they’ve been smoking—whether for days or decades, “it's never too late to quit and transform your health.”
As part of the ‘No Smoking Day’ campaign, new NHS research reveals that 43% of smokers think the addiction prevents them from fully embracing life.
The main reasons cited include spending too much money on smoking (39%); feeling less fit (31%) and being self-conscious due to smelling of smoke (29%).
Just under half (43%) of smokers admit they’ve missed out on time with friends and family due to smoking.
Additionally, 77% of smokers admit their physical health has taken a serious hit, a sentiment shared by 73% of ex-smokers.
Benefits of Quitting
Not only quitting smoking can save your life, but it also offers significant financial benefits.
Health improvements begin almost immediately after quitting:
- Within 72 hours, breathing becomes easier, and energy levels increase
- After 12 weeks, blood circulation improves
- After one year, the risk of heart attack is halved compared to that of a smoker.
NHS estimates that the average smoker can save approximately £48 per week by quitting smoking —amounting to nearly £2,500 annually
In the NHS study, 65% of ex-smokers said quitting helped them save money while 50% reported having more disposable income.
Those who quit smoking also reported feeling proud of themselves (49%) and improved sense of taste and smell (40%).
NHS Support to Quit
NHS offers various services to help smokers quit, including the NHS Quit Smoking app and a Personal Quit Plan.
To further support smokers, the government has pledged an additional £70 million for stop-smoking services in England for 2025 and 2026.
Additionally, the Swap to Stop scheme provides free vapes to help smokers quit, though the NHS advises that vapes should only be used as a cessation aid for adults—not by children or non-smokers.
NHS doctor and TV personality Dr Emeka Okorocha, warned that smoking causes one in four of all cancer deaths in England.
“It’s never too late to quit smoking and there’s help available for those looking to stop smoking,” she said, urging smokers to take the decision today.
