School pupils enlisted to help stamp out smoking
Local school children are being invited to lend their voice to a new initiative designed to stamp out smoking on hospital sites.
Coinciding with No Smoking Day on 11 March, the Northern Trust is asking school pupils to record a short message that will be played via a tannoy system at Antrim Area Hospital and Causeway Hospital. It is hoped that on hearing a child’s voice, smokers will think twice before lighting up, and even be encouraged to give up smoking for good.
Although the Trust operates a smokefree policy, some people continue to smoke at hospital sites. This can impact on vulnerable service users, and expose others to second-hand smoke.
Medical Director at the Northern Trust, Dr George Gardiner, said: “We do get quite a few complaints from visitors and family members about smokers gathering outside the main hospital entrances, and at our Emergency Departments. Those complaining are understandably concerned about their loved ones breathing in second-hand smoke and the impact that this can have on their health. We often hear from parents in particular, who are anxious about having to carry their newborn baby past groups of people smoking and have asked us to take action.
Dr Gardiner, added: “We know that nicotine is highly addictive and recognise that what we are asking is not easy. But we are also very mindful that we need to create a safe environment for all patients and staff. At the very least, we want our hospital entrances to be free from smoke, so this is really an appeal to people to show consideration for others.”
Mrs Monica Turner Principal of Round Tower Integrated Primary School and Nursery Unit in Antrim has backed the campaign: “We are delighted to have our pupils involved in this new initiative. Children’s voices can be so impactful and we think that this is a really positive way of reminding people of the effects that smoking can have not just on themselves, but also on those around them.”
Getting involved
The recordings will be used across hospital sites and social media as part of the Trust’s ongoing awareness campaign.
Schools interested in taking part should email Corporate.Communications@northerntrust.hscni.net to receive guidance on message length, recording quality and submission details.
Help is available
Alongside its appeal to stop smoking on hospital sites, the Trust is also taking the opportunity to let people know about the free resources and support that are available for anyone who wants to stub out cigarettes for good.
Dr Gardiner, said: “There is a lot of free advice and support available so I would really encourage people to seek help to quit. Smoking has a dramatic impact on a person’s health and wellbeing and evidence shows that those who are able to kick the habit will lower their risk for cancer, heart disease and stroke, not to mention the significant savings you will make.”
Studies show that a person is four times more likely to quit smoking with help and the Northern Trust’s Wellbeing Team is there to support anyone who wants to stop. The team offers a specialist face-to-face support service two mornings per week in Antrim Area Hospital and one day per week in Causeway Hospital, or they are available by phone.
The team will be able to discuss options, set a quit date, and provide more information on the support that is available.
Contact the team by emailing: healthandwellbeingteam@northerntrust.hscni.net, or calling: 028 2563 5575
Pictured above launching a new initiative aimed at stamping out smoking on hospital sites are Northern Trust Medical Director, Dr George Gardiner; Round Tower Integrated Primary School and Nursery Unit Principal, Mrs Monica Turner with pupils from P2 and P5
11th March 2026
