Pending

Abstract

A multi-method, pragmatic evaluation of a new stop smoking service offered to people experiencing financial difficulty in a community setting

Targeted support is needed to help people from more disadvantaged groups quit smoking. We evaluated the feasibility, acceptability and engagement with very brief advice (VBA) and referral to a stop smoking service (SSS), with added financial incentives (£270 vouchers), implemented by a local council and offered by Citizens Advice (CA; UK charity providing free advice). We used a multi-method, pragmatic and iterative approach. Quantitative outcomes included: number of CA clients who smoked, received VBA and were referred to the SSS; carbon monoxide (CO) verified abstinence at 4 and 12-weeks; vouchers provided. We thematically analysed semi-structured interviews with CA clients, a CA advisor, a SSS advisor and a council representative to explore perceptions of the scheme and its implementation. At 12-months, 3139 clients attended a scheduled appointment, although only 105 (3.3%) had recorded information. Of these, 43 were asked about or raised their smoking status; 32 smoked daily. Of these, 28 were offered the scheme, seven enrolled and two achieved 12-week CO-verified abstinence. Clients found VBA appropriate but reported confusion about the scheme. Improved training and engagement were needed for those delivering VBA. VBA and financial incentives to quit smoking is appropriate for people in financial difficulty seeking support. Despite interest, relatively few enrolled potentially due to implementation challenges.