Innovation Agency

The number of Blackpool mums classed as smokers when they give birth has shown a dramatic decrease. Up to 3,000 women give birth in Blackpool each year. The percentage classed as smokers once stood at 31 per cent. Now the figure is closer to 21 per cent and falling, making the resort one of the most improved areas in the country. The success is down to the efforts of a dedicated nine-strong team who work closely with expectant mums to explain the health benefits of not smoking during pregnancy on their baby. Research shared by the Innovation Agency, the Academic Health Science Network for the North West Coast, has helped provide the Blackpool team with additional insight to help mums make potentially life-changing decisions as Nigel Thompson reports.