YOS/MATRIX Smoking Cessation Procedure

The earlier a person starts smoking, due to the addictive nature of nicotine, the more likely he or she will become a heavy smoker and therefore have a greater risk of suffering from one of the many diseases caused by smoking. Approximately half of today’s young smokers will die early from smoking related diseases.

With this in mind, it is essential that we provide young people with the opportunity to access services to prevent progression of heavy smoking into adulthood and promote healthier lifestyle choices.

To address tobacco use by young people, the YOS in partnership with the Matrix, have the following procedure to ensure all young people are suitably screened and referred to the relevant agency.

At present all young people referred to YOS are assessed using YJB ASSETT Assessment Tool with the ‘Substance Use’ section covering tobacco use. Staff will:

1. Assess if the young person has recent use and if applicable ask them if they would like support in giving up smoking. Their response should be documented in the evidence box in asset as “referral to smoking cessation agreed by young person” or “referral to smoking cessation declined by the young person”.

2. If the young person declines a referral for smoking cessation YOS staff will hand out smoking cessation clinics information sheet and other smoking information literature where appropriate.

3. If the young person wishes to access support to stop smoking staff will complete a Matrix smoking cessation referral form. This is separate to a substance misuse referral form and should not be given to the YOS/Matrix worker

4. Email or fax the completed referral form to the Matrix, following receipt of the referral the Matrix will contact the young person direct to arrange an appointment with the smoking cessation nurse.

5. Complete a YOIS referral screen. The follow options are available to be used in this screen. The case manager is responsible for completing this.

 Smoking Cessation Referral – Used when you first refer  Smoking Cessation Contact – For sessions/contact  NFA/Close Smoking Programme – When the programme has ended 08.11.09