Trust thanks the public for keeping sites smoke free

The Smoke Free Sites policy was introduced on 9 March and means that smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is no longer permitted anywhere on Trust sites (i.e. entrances, doorways, walkways, buildings, internal roads, bus shelters, car parks, cars, bicycle shelters etc.)

The policy applies to all staff and volunteers, patients, visitors and anyone who enters the Trust’s hospitals, buildings and grounds.

Mr Gerard Rocks, SHSCT Assistant Director of Promoting Wellbeing said: “Following the introduction of the Smoke Free Sites policy there has been a marked decrease in the level of smoking across all sites and we would like to thank all who use and visit our sites for their support.

Whilst most people are adhering to the policy, there are still some people who are not and it is important that we remind everyone of the reasons why Health Trusts across Northern Ireland introduced the policy in the first place:  1 in every 2 people who smoke will die from their habit. By going smoke free, the health service is tackling smoking head-on by making its premises healthier environments.

Gerard added: “We would also like to remind persons that many Trust sites are located alongside residential areas and we would ask those choosing to smoke off site to be good neighbours by being mindful of the impact of second-hand smoke on others.”