Audit of smoking cessation service at Hammersmith and Fulham’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)

Abstract

Background: To audit the effectiveness of smoking cessation support being offered by Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners within an IAPT service and, to explore staff and client’s attitudes towards this mode of delivery. Methods: Collection and analysis of data on the IAPTus clinical database over a 6 month period, assessing number of clients identified as smokers (N71); number referred for smoking cessation support (N26) and the outcomes of such referrals. Client survey completed with clients who accessed therapy but declined smoking cessation support (N9), and anonymous staff surveys administered via surveymonkey (N9). Findings: 13 clients attended at least one smoking cessation support session (3 successful quitters; 5 dropped out of treatment; 2 clients moved out of borough; 2 referred on for support for cannabis use; 1 still accessing support). 2 out of the 3 successful quitters had completed a course of CBT prior to accessing smoking cessation support. Staff survey revealed ambivalence toward smoking cessation support being embedded within an IAPT service and, low confidence in explaining the service to clients. Client survey indicated a positive attitude toward smoking cessation being offered in an IAPT setting, however clients were not ready to quit smoking at the time support was offered. Discussion: Smoking Cessation support may be particularly beneficial at the end of therapy, when clients feel more prepared to address their smoking. Staff training and regular promotion of smoking cessation may help address staff ambivalence regarding this service being offered within IAPT. Follow up audit recommended to assess effectiveness of these implementations.