Health innovation networks have launched a new programme to optimise tobacco dependency support for patients across the West of England and the East Midlands.

Working in partnership with Health Innovation West of England, we are launching a transformative new programme designed to tackle tobacco dependency by improving access to hospital-based tobacco dependency services and community support.

Operating initially across our two regions, the initiative aims to optimise the existing NHS Model Tobacco Pathway by using digital technology to increase inpatient engagement with stop smoking services and smoking cessation medications.

Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable death in England, claiming approximately 64,000 lives annually and contributing to over 100 different diseases. While smoking rates have declined to around one in ten adults, progress is currently slowing, threatening the government’s ambition for England to create a smokefree UK.

A central pillar of the new programme is the integration of digital patient messaging systems (SMS) to ensure equitable access to cessation support. By enhancing these pathways, the programme aims to support patients not only during their hospital stay - a pivotal moment when individuals are often more open to making healthier choices - but also through the critical transition back to their communities.

The programme will focus on:

• Improving engagement: using automated data collection and SMS to follow up with patients who may have opted out of support while in the hospital.
• Increasing access to medication: streamlining referrals for Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and first-line treatments recommended by NICE, such as Varenicline and Cytisinicline.
• Bridging the gap: Establishing cross-sector agreements between NHS trusts, local authorities and community services to ensure no patient ‘falls through the cracks’ after discharge.

Professor Sanjay Agrawal, National Specialty Adviser for Tobacco Dependency at NHS England, welcomed the launch: "Treating tobacco dependency in the NHS has never been more important. I am really excited that the health innovation networks are going to be involved in taking this work to the next level using digital technologies to help patients get the support they need, quickly and effectively."

Dr Mark Juniper, Clinical Lead for the Treating Tobacco Dependency Programme at Health Innovation West of England, said: "A hospital stay is often a turning point for patients. By strengthening both our digital and non-digital pathways, we can ensure that every smoker is consistently identified and offered high-quality support. Our goal is to make the transition from hospital to home seamless, providing patients with the tools and medications they need to quit for good."

Hazel Cheeseman, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), added: "To create a Smokefree UK where smoking rates are reduced across the whole of society, we must innovate. This programme’s focus on bridging the gap between inpatient services and community-based support is vital. By using digital messaging to maintain contact post-discharge, we can support more people on their journey to becoming smoke-free, ultimately reducing health inequalities."

Launch webinar

Join the lunchtime webinar on Friday 12 June to find out more about the Treating Tobacco Dependency programme, how local services can get involved and hear from national speakers supporting this work:

• Date: Friday 12 June 2026, 1pm - 2:15pm
• Speakers: Professor Sanjay Agrawal (NHSE), Matt Evison (Greater Manchester Tobacco Control), Claire Mellon (Leicester City Council), Hazel Cheeseman (ASH), and Dr. Mark Juniper (HIN).
• Registration: Book your place here