Leeds Rhinos Foundation has teamed up with Leeds Stop Smoking Service to support a city-wide campaign helping people quit smoking for good.
With matchday activations, personal stories, and expert advice, the campaign aims to raise awareness and offer real support to those ready to make a change. Smoking is still one of the biggest causes of preventable illness and early death in the UK. In Leeds, thousands live with smoking-related health issues, but the good news is that quitting at any age brings immediate and long-term benefits.
The campaign focuses on busting common myths and sharing the facts about smoking. Many people still believe that quitting is too hard, that it’s too late to stop, or that it isn’t too harmful for your health, but these are misconceptions. The truth is:
- People who get expert support are up to three times more likely to quit successfully than those who go it alone
- Quitting at any age improves your health almost immediately
- Quitting smoking can save you thousands of pounds a year, money you could put towards holidays, hobbies, or treating your family.
By tackling these myths head-on, the campaign aims to empower people with clear, evidence-based information, and connect them with the support that works. Leeds Rhinos Foundation will be providing lots more myths and truths throughout the next month across social media, through Rhinos players and at home matchdays.
Ben Berry, Health & Wellbeing Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation said:
“We’re proud to support this vital campaign. Although smoking rates have fallen nationally over the past decade, the impact of smoking still deeply affects many communities in Leeds. Thousands live with smoking-related health problems that lead to premature death and place a heavy burden on local health services. We see firsthand in communities how it impacts health – both mental and physical – as well as poverty levels and the environment.
“If you smoke, don’t hesitate to have a conversation with the stop smoking teams. They’re highly trained experts who understand what you’re going through and can provide the support you need to quit successfully. If you are a parent, please come and talk to us so we can help raise awareness and protect children from the harms of smoking.”
Victoria Eaton – Director of Public Health at Leeds City Council said:
“We are proud to be working with Leeds Rhinos Foundation on this campaign to reach people directly in the communities where smoking continues to have the greatest impact. While overall smoking rates have declined, too many people in Leeds are still living with the harmful effects of tobacco. We are especially pleased to be partnering with such a pillar of the Leeds community, the Rhinos are more than just a team they are a trusted voice that can help us reach those who need help to quit.
“If you smoke, the Leeds Stop Smoking service teams are here for you. They understand the challenges and can give you the personalised support you need to quit for good. Together, we can protect families, improve health, and reduce health inequalities across Leeds”
Fiona Venner – Councillor said:
“This campaign highlights how we’re taking a fresh and innovative approach to improving health across Leeds, working with trusted voices like Leeds Rhinos to connect with people in new and meaningful ways. Smoking remains one of the leading causes of poor health in our city, and we know that traditional approaches don’t always reach everyone. By partnering with a club that’s deeply rooted in our communities, we’re making stop smoking support more visible, accessible, and relatable.
“Encouraging more people to quit smoking not only improves individual health, it also helps create safer, smokefree environments for children and vulnerable members of our communities. Quitting can be challenging, but the support available is free, non-judgemental, and proven to work. This is about doing things differently to give everyone in Leeds a better chance of living a healthier, smokefree life.”
On Friday at Leeds Rhinos vs St Helens in the South Stand and Entrance areas Reed Wellbeing and Inspire North will be in attendance, who deliver essential stop smoking services across the city. Fans will have the chance to learn more about the dangers of smoking through engaging visuals and interactive displays, discover how to access free, local support, and even check their carbon monoxide (CO) levels using specialist monitors. Visit the team to learn more about smoking and for an open conversation about quitting. Young fans can also pick up a giant Leeds Rhinos Foundation and a Stop Smoking foam finger to boost their matchday energy and show their support from the stands.
Ready to quit?
If you’re thinking about stopping smoking, there’s free, friendly help waiting. Whether it’s one-on-one support, access to stop smoking aids like nicotine replacement therapy, or digital tools to help you stay on track, you’ll find something that works for you. You don’t have to do it alone. Expert support can make all the difference, and it’s available right here in Leeds.
👉 Visit leedstopsmoking.co.uk to start your journey.
Know the facts. Take control. Make your move today.