We are calling on our patients and visitors to join us in this campaign by ensuring that they do not smoke or vape on the hospital site. We implemented a no-smoking policy at The Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford, and St Margaret’s Hospital in Epping, in 2017. We need the support of our patients and visitors to ensure that this is followed on all occasions to protect the health of other patients, visitors, and our people.
Smokers should leave the hospital site if they wish to smoke or vape. The hospital site includes the hospital car parks.
Secondhand smoke is dangerous – people who breathe in secondhand smoke regularly are more likely to develop the same diseases as smokers, including lung cancer and heart disease. Pregnant women exposed to passive smoke are more prone to premature birth and their baby is more at risk of low birthweight and cot death. Children exposed to smoky environments are at a higher risk of breathing problems, asthma, and allergies. Secondhand smoke is also a risk for all our patients, visitors and people with respiratory issues.
Those who smoke on site can expect to be challenged by our people and security team.
As part of our commitment to a smoke-free NHS, our people discuss smoking with our patients, and smokers using our services are offered stop smoking support.
To find out more about Smokefree PAHT click the link