SMOKING in Leeds hospitals is to be banned from today.
Lighting up will be outlawed in and around any hospital building – including in the grounds.
Staff have been given help to try to quit, and patients will also be offered advice and support.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust chief nurse Maureen Naughton said: "As an organisation where health is our core business, we want to take the lead in
helping people to kick the habit.
"The new policy is designed to protect the health, safety and welfare of everyone involved with the Trust – ensuring that no-one is exposed to the harmful effects of second hand smoke."
The ban covers all Leeds Hospitals sites, including Leeds General Infirmary, St James's Hospital, Chapel Allerton Hospital, Seacroft Hospital, Cookridge Hospital and Wharfedale Hospital in Otley. Leeds Dental Institute will also come under the ban.
Other NHS centres, such as walk-in clinics and GP practices, will also be covered by the veto, which will apply to staff, patients and visitors.
Director of public health for Leeds, Dr Ian Cameron, added: "As a provider of health services, NHS Trusts have a unique responsibility to improve the health of our staff and the community.
"A smoke-free environment will be better for everyone in many ways. We will work with staff, patients and visitors to ensure that they are involved in making a smoke-free environment a reality."
