Making a drama out of smoke free countdown

Business people from across the Rochdale borough will be going to a series of smoke free shows next week (w/c 16 April).

The one-stop-shop events for everything smoke free are being organised by Rochdale Council in partnership with Oldham Council and Oldham Theatre Workshop. They will use actors to demonstrate the messages about the forthcoming "smoke free" law.

The interactive sessions will include role play and demonstrations of the types of questions on everyones lips - such as how to make the smoke free laws work in practice, to asking smokers to not smoke indoors.

The events, to be held at the Grange Arts Centre, Oldham, are pivotal to smoke free countdown and the preparation work to help the smoke free laws have a smooth introduction.

Lisa Barker, who is leading the work on making the borough smoke free for Rochdale Council and Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Primary Care Trust, said: "We are now less than 80 days away from the 1st of July when England will go smoke free. All businesses are encouraged to start planning for the summer.

"Professional actors from Oldham Theatre Workshop will perform key messages about the smoke free laws - everything from 'how do I ask a smoker to not smoke in my pub' to 'what does the law mean to my business'."

In the Rochdale Borough, smokers have access to advice and support in order to quit and improve their own health as well as the health of those around them. People can call the Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale NHS Stop Smoking Service for further information and advice on 01706 708000.

For further information about Smoke Free Rochdale Borough and how local businesses can be supported with the transition in advance of the legislation, telephone 01706 924225 or visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/smokefree