Published on 13th August 2026
Welcome to the very first edition of the Change Grow Live SmokeFree Bromley’s Newsletter! As we settle into the summer months, we wanted to take the opportunity to say hello, share some helpful updates, and keep you connected with what's happening across the service. Whether you're just beginning your smokefree journey, supporting someone else, or looking for the latest information and advice, we hope you'll find something useful in each edition.
Thank you for being part of our SmokeFree community. We hope you enjoy reading our first newsletter, and we look forward to sharing many more with you.
Varenicline
Varenicline is Now Available Through SmokeFree Bromley!
If you're thinking about quitting smoking, there's good news – varenicline is now available through the SmokeFree Bromley service for eligible clients.
What is varenicline?
Varenicline is a prescription-only medication that can significantly increase your chances of quitting smoking. It works in three key ways:
- Reduces nicotine cravings, making it easier to manage urges to smoke.
- Reduces the rewarding effects of smoking by blocking nicotine's action in the brain, so cigarettes become less satisfying.
- Helps ease withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, restlessness and cravings.
When combined with support from our specialist stop smoking advisors, varenicline can be an effective tool to help you become smoke-free.
If you'd like to find out whether varenicline is right for you, speak to a member of the SmokeFree Bromley team.
*Available following a clinical assessment. Eligibility criteria apply.
Summer wellness tips
Enjoy a healthier summer – every smoke-free day is a step towards better health.
Success story
Read Louise's story:
The service has been brilliant from start to finish. Change Grow Live has been incredibly supportive throughout my quit smoking journey, and finding the service has genuinely changed my life.
Since quitting, I feel so much healthier. I’m no longer as breathless, everyday tasks are much easier, and I can now walk-up stairs and even run for the bus without struggling. The difference has been amazing.
The advisors have all been fantastic. They’re friendly, approachable, and I’ve always felt comfortable speaking to anyone on the team. I never felt judged or pressured—only supported and encouraged.
I had smoked for around 22 years, and I honestly couldn’t imagine a time when I wouldn’t smoke. I’d previously tried to quit on my own and managed around nine months but eventually started smoking again. This time feels different because I know that if I’m ever struggling, I can always come back and speak to one of the advisors for support.
One thing I particularly enjoy is the carbon monoxide (CO) readings. Seeing my results improve each week motivates me and reminds me how far I’ve come and the progress I’ve made.
I think Change Grow Live is an amazing service. It helps people when they need it most, and I would happily recommend it to friends and family. In fact, I’ve recently encouraged my own mum to stop smoking because of the positive experience I’ve had. Being able to share my story with her has given her the confidence to seek support too, and I know she’ll benefit from the service just as much as I have.
Thank you, Change Grow Live SmokeFree Bromley, for helping me change my life."
Myth Busting Corner
Need support? Contact the SmokeFree Bromley team to find out about free stop smoking support, nicotine replacement therapy, and whether varenicline could be suitable for you.
Healthy recipe
Summer is the perfect time to focus on your health and wellbeing. Staying smoke-free is one of the best things you can do for your body, and combining it with a healthy, balanced diet can help you feel even better.
Make the most of the season by enjoying plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, drinking enough water to stay hydrated, and choosing nutritious meals that keep your energy levels up. Small, healthy changes can make a big difference, helping you feel your best while supporting your smoke-free journey.
Remember, every healthy choice you make this summer is an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing.
Summer Recipe: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Fresh, filling, and packed with fibre, this colourful salad is perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a side dish at a barbecue.
Serves: 4
Preperation time: 10 minutes
The Mediterranean Dish RecipeIngredients
- 1 x 400g tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 50g reduced-fat feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Freshly ground black pepper
Method
- Place the chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, pepper, onion and parsley into a large bowl.
- Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano and black pepper in a small bowl or jar.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese, if using, and chill for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Why it's good for you
- High in fibre to help keep you feeling full for longer.
- Rich in protein from chickpeas, supporting muscle health.
- Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.
- Heart-friendly thanks to healthy fats from olive oil.
Top tip: Add grilled chicken, tuna or quinoa for an extra protein boost, or enjoy with wholemeal pitta bread for a satisfying summer lunch.
Fun & Easy exercises for Summer:
You don't need a gym membership to stay active this summer. Even small amounts of movement can boost your mood, improve your fitness, and help manage cravings if you're quitting smoking.
Take a Nature Walk
Explore a local park or nature trail and enjoy the fresh air. Walking for just 30 minutes a day can benefit your heart, lungs and mental wellbeing.
Go for a Bike Ride
Cycling is a great low-impact activity that's suitable for most fitness levels. Why not explore your local area or cycle to the shops instead of driving?
Stretch in the Garden
Spend 10–15 minutes doing gentle stretches or yoga in your garden or a local green space. It can improve flexibility, reduce stress and help you relax.
Turn Up the Music
Have a dance around the house or garden with your favourite summer playlist. It's a fun way to get your heart pumping and lift your mood.
Get Gardening
Digging, planting, watering and weeding all count as physical activity. Gardening is a great way to stay active while enjoying the sunshine.
Play with Family or Friends
Kick a football, throw a Frisbee, play badminton or enjoy a game of rounders. It's a great way to spend time together while keeping active.
Stay Safe in the Heat
If you're exercising outdoors, choose the cooler parts of the day, drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and take breaks in the shade when needed.
Remember: Every bit of movement counts. Whether it's a short walk, a stretch, or a game in the park, staying active can help improve your physical health, boost your mood and support your smoke-free journey.
Meet the team - Sneha
What do you do to relax in spare time?
I watch Hells Kitchen, as it helps me relax and unwind after a long day at work. Team conflicts, kitchen mistakes, and emotional moments make it feel like more than just a cooking show. Many contestants improve dramatically throughout the season, making their journeys satisfying to watch.
If you could only have one last meal, what would it be?
Biryani, every time I go out for a meal, this is what I look for. I love all of the different flavours within the dish, and it amazes me that its all on one plate.
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Gone, Gone, Gone by Phillip Phillips. One of the things I like most about the song is its rhythm, which is upbeat and easy to follow. I also like that the lyrics are thoughtful and meaningful instead of being made up of random words, as this allows me to connect with the song on a deeper level.
What is your favourite colour and why?
Different shades of blue, I’ve always liked the colour blue. It reminds me of the sky on a beautiful summers day.
If you could pick up a new skill or hobby in an instant, what would it be?
I'd choose painting. I've always admired people who can bring their ideas to life with a brush, and I'd love to create landscapes, portraits, or abstract art while having a relaxing way to unwind.
What is the best part of your job role?
I love that every day is different. There's always a new challenge or a new story to be part of, which makes the role enjoyable and ensures I never get bored.
What is the best story you’ve heard from a client?
One of my client's biggest motivations to quit smoking is being able to spend more time chatting and gossiping with her friends without having to step away for a cigarette, as none of them smoke. I really admire the honesty.
Keep the Sunshine Going!
That's a wrap on the very first Change Grow Live SmokeFree Bromley Newsletter – thank you for being part of it!
This summer, make every smoke-free day count. Whether you're enjoying a picnic, a walk in the park, a BBQ with friends, or simply soaking up the sunshine, remember that every cigarette not smoked is another win for your health, your wallet, and your future.
Keep celebrating the little victories, stay kind to yourself, and remember—you don't have to do it alone. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Enjoy a happy, healthy, and SmokeFree Summer… and we'll see you in the next edition!
The Change Grow Live SmokeFree Bromley Team