Louise from Ripon started smoking when she was around 14 years old. After finding out she was pregnant with her fourth child, she decided it was time to quit for good. With the support of an advisor, she has now been smokefree for four months.

Louise, 37, said: “I started smoking when I was in school because everyone around me was doing it. It was the norm. The amount I smoked changed over the years, but at one point I was smoking 30-a-day.

“I don’t know how I found the money or the time. Smoking is expensive and, as a mum, finding time to go outside for a cigarette wasn’t always easy.”

Louise says the support she received at the midwife clinic made all the difference.

“I’ve tried to quit before. Sometimes I’d manage a few months, other times only a few weeks. This time felt different because I had someone supporting me every step of the way.

“My advisor gave me constant encouragement and support. Because she had already helped me throughout my pregnancy, I trusted her and felt even more determined to stop smoking.

“I’m using nicotine patches and an inhalator to manage my cravings, but I’ve already started reducing the strength.

“It’s such a reassurance knowing I’m not putting my baby at risk – I’m really excited to meet them.”

Louise’s advice to anyone thinking about quitting is simple: “You’ve just got to keep going. It might not happen straight away, and there may be setbacks along the way, but don’t give up. It’ll be worth it in the long run.”