Ban sparks more business for clinic that helps quitters

ONE of the organisations most affected by Micheál Martin’s smoking ban was a clinic set up to combat the addiction.

Allen Carr, the world’s most successful programme at helping people quit nicotine, had to abandon its policy of allowing patients smoke during therapy. Instead, those attending are now allowed a number of smoking breaks out of doors in between sessions.

And, although initially concerned at what the reaction might be, the decision to ban smoking from clinics was a complete success, said Allen Carr Ireland managing director Brenda Sweeney

“Knowing that the ban was inevitable, we decided around June not to have smoking in the room. We introduced it gradually because we didn’t want the introduction to be too sudden. It hasn’t been a problem. Most people coming have a smoke beforehand, anyway, and we allow two smoke breaks before coffee.” The original rationale behind permitting smoking during clinics was that addicts might become fidgety and lose concentration.

“All along we felt it important to remove the fear of being without a cigarette. That is why we used to allow smoking in the room. However, we have found that the breaks work equally well and that, in fact, smokers are pleased not to have to come back into a smoke-filled room.”

The venues now chosen by Allen Carr Easy Quit have easy access to the open air which also allows individuals to take unscheduled smoke breaks if they feel the need. The new system was also brought in to protect the therapists, said Ms Sweeney. “We found that even modern hotels had poor extractor systems and we had to protect our therapists. All our clinics in the UK have followed suit and have banned smoking in the session room.”

The Irish organisation is looking forward to doing even better business. “Our corporate business is already very healthy, but we have had an increase in inquiries from firms that want their staff to attend. Allowing staff take outside smoke breaks can affect production and there is also the important issue of having a healthier workforce.”

The system claims a 90% success rate internationally and, said Ms Sweeney, who has not smoked in 24 years, that rate is even higher in Ireland.

“That rate is based on our money back guarantee, which involves about 10% of those attending. I give less than 4% money back in Ireland so we are the most successful here.”

For info on the Allen Carr Easyway to stop phone lo call 1890 - 379929 or email easyway.ie