Smokers who want to quit have a good chance of being successful if they live in the Western Isles, figures show.
Statistics published by Public Health Scotland show the Western Isles is leading the way in smoking cessation performance, with NHS Western Isles being the highest performing board in the country.
NHS Western Isles achieved well above its annual target for helping smokers to quit – achieving 137 per cent of their target. This was revealed in the latest NHS Stop Smoking Services Local Delivery Plan (LDP) Standard 2025/26 Quarter 4 statistics.
The local health organisation was one of only two NHS boards to meet or exceed its annual LDP Standard target.
The achievement is particularly significant given the national picture. Across Scotland, NHS boards collectively achieved 75 per cent of their annual target, with 5,292 successful 12-week quits recorded during 2025/26.
The latest Public Health Scotland data highlights the impact of the support available through local stop smoking services and the commitment of staff and partners across the Western Isles to helping people improve their health and wellbeing. The results also demonstrate the value of effective partnership working and person-centred support delivered within local communities.
Mags Ralston, Smoking Cessation Coordinator for NHS Western Isles, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have exceeded our annual target and to be recognised as the highest-performing NHS board in Scotland.
"This achievement reflects the dedication and commitment of colleagues and partners across the Western Isles who work tirelessly to support people to stop smoking and improve their health.
"Every successful quit represents an important step towards better health and wellbeing. I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering and supporting our stop smoking services for their continued hard work, commitment and support."
NHS Western Isles continues to encourage anyone who smokes, or who would like support to stop vaping, to seek help through Quit Your Way Hebrides. The free service offers personalised advice, support and access to stop smoking treatments to help people quit successfully.
For advice or support on quitting, get in touch with Quit Your Way Hebrides on 01851 708040 or email
