From awareness to action: how Shopmobility supports a smoke-free Renfrewshire

Shopmobility Renfrewshire is a charity dedicated to improving accessibility and independence by providing five services to those with mobility disabilities across Renfrewshire:

1. Hire of mobility equipment (long and short term).
2. A small repairs and maintenance service.
3. Social inclusion events.
4. Advocacy
5. Comprehensive accessibility surveys to improve accessibility in public spaces

As an active supporter of the ASH Scotland Smoke-Free Charter, Shopmobility has continued to strengthen its commitment to promoting healthier, smoke-free environments for its members, staff, and volunteers.

Identifying the need

Shopmobility recognised that a noticeable proportion of its membership smoked, with several experiencing related health problems. Smoking or Vaping while using mobility equipment also posed health and safety concerns. Recognising this, the organisation saw an opportunity to both reduce risks and support members who may be considering quitting.

In response, Shopmobility set out to raise awareness of tobacco, vaping, and second hand smoke harms, while improving signposting to Quit Your Way services. They achieved this through several avenues: 

Strengthened smoke-free and vape-free policies

To increase safety and set clear expectations, Shopmobility introduced a smoke-free and vape-free policy applying to:

• The use of any mobility equipment
• Driving or travelling in the Shopmobility van
• The front or back office areas
• The area directly outside the premises
• Any situation where staff or volunteers represent the charity at events, meetings, or community activities

This policy not only reduces risk but also reinforces the organisation’s commitment to prevention through positive role modelling. To support the policy, ‘no smoking’ and ‘no vaping’ stickers have been placed on mobility equipment as a reminder and prompt to users.

Promoting quit your way services

Shopmobility has displayed a range of NHS posters and leaflets covering smoking cessation, guidance for adults and young people on quitting vaping, and information on second hand smoke. These resources are displayed within their reception area for members, staff and volunteers to access.

The organisation also promoted Quit Your Way through its newsletter, which included an article about the service that was shared across digital platforms and social media. To ensure accessibility, paper copies are also available for anyone who prefers printed information.

Empowering their community

To inspire others, Shopmobility have celebrated staff and volunteers who have successfully quit smoking and wanted to share their experience to help others. This positive role modelling contributes to a supportive culture that empowers others to consider quitting.

A total of 50 staff and volunteers have received direct training on smoking, vaping, and related harms. Through strengthened policies, proactive awareness raising, supportive role modelling, and clear signposting, Shopmobility is helping to create a safer, healthier environment for everyone connected to the service.

Overall, the organisation estimates it has engaged approximately 432 people through its project. Together, these efforts highlight how targeted community initiatives can make a real difference in raising awareness of harms associated with tobacco and related products.