Is a telephone helpline of value to the workplace smoker?

Abstract

This paper reports the findings of the evaluation of a national smokers' helpline which was set up by British Telecom (BT) for its employees. The helpline formed part of a new comprehensive smoking policy for all BT staff. Over 1000 employees, more than 3.0% of all smokers, phoned the helpline during the first three months of its operation. Two-thirds of callers tried to quit smoking after calling the helpline, and a quarter were still successful three months later. One in six callers reduced the number of cigarettes that they smoked on working days. While the helpline and other cessation support services were evaluated positively by callers, it appears that helplines only appeal to a small minority of smokers. However, they do seem to be an effective mechanism for a nationwide company to identify those smokers who want support, and a useful means of centralizing the administration of support services. They are potentially a cost-effective option for larger employers.