Local stop smoking services are free, friendly and can massively boost your chances of quitting for good.

These services staffed by expert advisers provide a range of proven methods to help you quit.

They'll give you accurate information and advice, as well as professional support, during the first few months you stop smoking.

They also make it easy and affordable for you to get stop smoking treatments, such as:

• nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches or gum
• medicines such as varenicline and bupropion (Zyban)

Some local services might also offer access to other types of support such as Allen Carr's Easyway.

One-to-one and group stop smoking sessions

You'll normally be offered a one-to-one appointment with an adviser, but many areas also offer group and drop-in services as well.

Depending on where you live, the venue could be a local GP surgery, pharmacy, high-street shop, or even a mobile bus clinic.

You may be able to join sessions by phone or video call if you cannot go in person.

Jennifer Percival, who trains stop smoking advisers, says that using both treatment and specialist support is proven to give you the best chance of stopping smoking.

"The majority of people who see an adviser will get through the first month after quitting without smoking a cigarette.

"Overall, you're up to 3 times more likely to stop smoking for good if you use a combination of stop smoking treatment and receive support from an NHS Stop Smoking Service." she says.

How to contact a stop smoking adviser

Your GP, pharmacist or health visitor can refer you, or you can phone your local stop smoking service to make an appointment with an adviser.

Find stop smoking services near you – Click here