People across Leicestershire are being reminded of the dangers of second-hand smoke in the home this Christmas, as part of a campaign encouraging smokers to quit ahead of 2026.
Health leaders at Leicestershire County Council say smoking indoors puts not only smokers at risk, but also children, older family members and people with breathing difficulties. They are urging residents to make their homes smoke-free during the festive period and beyond.
Picture credit: Leicestershire County Council
Second-hand smoke is linked to thousands of deaths in the UK each year, including hundreds of non-smokers who die from heart disease and stroke. Children exposed to smoke are more likely to experience asthma attacks, chest infections and ear problems, with around 17,000 children under the age of five admitted to hospital annually due to illnesses caused by second-hand smoke. Smoking indoors also raises the risk of house fires by 35 per cent.
A council spokesperson said Christmas and New Year offer an important opportunity for change. “It’s a time to celebrate with loved ones and also to look ahead. Making your home smoke-free helps keep everyone safe, and for those thinking about quitting, the New Year is an ideal time to start.”
QuitReady Leicestershire, the county’s stop smoking service, has supported more than 13,000 people to quit smoking since 2017. So far in 2025, nearly 1,100 residents have successfully quit after four weeks, many after struggling for years. In addition, 505 people have pledged to keep their homes and cars smoke-free.
Free advice and support to quit smoking is available by calling 03456 466666, texting “READY” to 66777, or visiting the QuitReady Leicestershire website.
