University Hospital Dorset (UHD) has launched a peer support group for smokers who are either currently pregnant or have recently given birth and wish to quit.

The sessions will aim to be a safe space for those who are thinking of quitting, or who are already on their journey of stopping smoking, with public health midwives from St Mary’s Maternity Unit at Poole Hospital on hand to provide support and advice.

Beth Fletcher is one of the midwives involved with the service. She said: "We’re proud to be able to provide this new support group which has been set up to give pregnant or new parents the opportunity to share their experiences of their quit journeys, and support each other in being smoke free.”

“Anyone who is thinking of quitting, is currently quitting, or has quit in pregnancy, is welcome to join and share their story. We’ll also help people you live with to help quit, so bring them along too. You are far more likely to quit with support, and our peer support group will provide that."

Sessions will take place every Friday at 10:30am, starting from 8 March, at Canford Heath Outreach Centre, Culliford Cres, Poole, BH17 9DW.