A successful approach to reduce youth smoking in Leicestershire

Smoking is a leading cause of ill-health and premature death in the UK, and an important public health issue. However, there is little evidence for effective smoking cessation programmes aimed at young people, particularly school-based. This article reviews the findings of a 3-year local area agreement to reduce the prevalence of smoking in young people and adults, and improve the health and wellbeing of the local population in Leicestershire, including some areas of substantial deprivation.