Introduction to stop-smoking support

This is a two day training course, aimed at specialist stop-smoking workers new to the field, or other workers who are providing stop-smoking support (possibly on an ad hoc basis) as part of their role. It may also provide a development opportunity for those who carry out brief interventions on tobacco use and wish to learn more about stop-smoking support.

The course is delivered regularly in Edinburgh but can be run locally by PATH trainers working alongside local trainers. Please contact us if you wish to discuss the possibility of a tailored delivery for your organisation.

Prerequisite training

While there is no absolute prerequisite for attendance, it is strongly recommended that before attending this course, participants have completed one of the Raising the Issue of Smoking (RIS) courses including the related e-learning. However, please feel free to contact us if you are considering registering and have not participated in a RIS course. This will provide an opportunity to ensure that the ‘Introduction to stop-smoking support’ is appropriate to your needs.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • explain the purpose, process and benefits of delivering a brief intervention to stop smoking
  • describe the diseases and health complaints caused by smoking and the health benefits of stopping
  • understand the nature of nicotine addiction and be able to assess a client's level of dependence
  • communicate effectively and empathically when providing stop-smoking support
  • have a basic understanding of planning, organising and delivering specialist stop-smoking support to individuals and groups
  • describe the range of pharmacotherapies available and be able to help clients choose the most suitable product for them
  • understand the link between smoking and health inequalities, including the specific needs of priority target groups
  • give an overview of local and national stop-smoking policies including the national minimum dataset.

Next steps

While the course will provide participants with an excellent introduction to the world of smoking cessation, covering both the knowledge and skills needed, it should be appreciated that participants will require post-training practice and mentoring locally to become fully competent stop-smoking advisers. PATH Training & Development Team would be happy to assist line managers in devising a relevant programme of post-course support. Please contact us if you feel this would be helpful.

Successful completion of the Introduction to stop-smoking support provides participants with the required knowledge to access the PATH 'Stop-smoking support to individuals and groups' academically accredited module and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

Course dates and registration information

There is currently no cost for this training and the date for the next available course is as follows:

  • 15 - 16 March 2012

To register, contact: TAdministrator@ashscotland.org.uk for a booking form or download it here Course Booking Form. You can also telephone 0131 220 9959 for any further queries. Please note, these courses are run on a 'first come first served' basis therefore it is advised to register early to avoid disappointment.

Last updated: November 2011