WITH just under a month to go before England goes smokefree, help is at hand for smokers across the region who are trying to kick the dirty habit.

Latest research by the NHS Smokefree campaign shows that more than a tenth (12 per cent) of smokers in the south east think the new law - which comes into force on July 1 - will be a big incentive for them to quit.

Would-be-quitters can call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 1690169 to find out about a range of services to help them. Whether it's joining a support group or finding out more about nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), support is there for anyone wanting to go smokefree.

Local NHS Stop Smoking Services in the south east can provide support on a group or one-to-one basis. For people wanting to quit at their own pace, the free Together' programme offers support and advice during the giving-up process through emails, text messages, post and phone calls.

A new stop smoking treatment called Champix is now available on prescription and guidance on its use is expected from NICE, the organisation that assesses new treatments, in July 2007.

Government research shows that smokers are up to four times more likely to give up successfully if they use their local NHS Stop Smoking Service together with NRT than they are if they use willpower alone.

Smokers who want to quit can find details of their local NHS Stop Smoking Service and information on all the other support available by visiting www.gosmokefree.co.uk, texting GIVE UP' and their full postcode to 88088 or asking their local GP practice, pharmacy or hospital.

Quitters can also sign up to www.justgiving.com/smokefree and quit smoking whilst raising money for a charity of their choice.