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How to access free smoking, weight and active lifestyle support in Ipswich

Residents can get help stopping smoking, managing weight and becoming more active through Feel Good Suffolk's website, phone line or local walking groups.

An overweight man running on a treadmill
An overweight man running on a treadmill
(Getty Images)

Why it matters: The new "Feel Good Vibes" campaign offers support when people are ready to make positive health changes, with trained advisors available across the county.

The Feel Good Suffolk service offers guidance to set achievable health goals, practical advice for stopping smoking and becoming more active, plus access to nicotine replacement therapies and information about local walking groups.

The big picture: Over 1,600 people in Suffolk have successfully quit smoking with Feel Good Suffolk support between January 2024 and June 2025. More than 3,000 people have been helped to manage their weight in the same period, with 94% of clients rating their experience as "excellent" or "good".

What they’re saying: Stuart Keeble, Suffolk's Director of Public Health, said: "We know the immediate benefits that can come from small changes – leading to big differences to someone's quality of life. We also know how much of a challenge it can be, for example, to quit smoking, which is why Feel Good Suffolk is here to help people every step of the way."

Participant Victoria, who attended a Feel Good Suffolk stop smoking group, said: "You know you can talk to her about different ways you're going to give up smoking and, if something doesn't work, you can go back and try something else. I have had health problems, and this is the one thing I can take control over."

What's available: The service includes website resources, telephone support, local support groups, goal-setting guidance, proven techniques for lifestyle changes, nicotine replacement therapies, and advice on local walking groups.

This week also sees the start of summer Wellbeing Walks – free organised walks across the county in partnership with Ramblers UK.

The bottom line: Feel Good Suffolk provides free, accessible support for anyone in Suffolk looking to improve their health through stopping smoking, weight management or increased physical activity, with multiple contact methods and proven results.

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