Alderman Hubert Schokker Kicks Off Stoptober

Stoptober is coming up. For the tenth year in a row, we’re calling on smokers in the Netherlands to quit smoking for four weeks starting October 1. In Voorschoten, Hubert Schokker, a member of the “ Alderman ” (Voorschoten Citizens’ Committee), will kick off the campaign on September 29.

Quitting smoking isn’t easy. Research shows that effective support helps people quit. That’s why the municipality of Voorschoten is participating in Stoptober. On Friday, September 29, at 10:00 a.m., Alderman Hubert Schokker will kick off the event. Remco Dubbeling, youth chairman of the Voorschoten ’97 soccer club, and family physician Oscar Nijst will also be in attendance.

The kickoff event will take place on the markt, near the Wapen van Voorschoten. A special information van from Hecht GGD Hollands-Midden will be parked there. Until 1:00 p.m., experts from the GGD will be talking with shoppers. They’ll provide information, answer questions, and help people sign up for Stoptober.

Good for your health and your wallet

“Nearly 500,000 people in the Netherlands took part in Stoptober,” says Alderman Schokker. “A full 70 percent managed to go four weeks without smoking. More than half of the participants were still smoke-free after three months. It shows how important it is to get help and to do it together.”

The “ Alderman ” warmly encourages residents who want to quit smoking to take advantage of this opportunity. “Quitting is good for your health and your wallet. Moreover, it sets a good example for young people who don’t smoke yet. After all, the best way to quit smoking is still not to start in the first place.”

Want to join?

Smokers who want to participate in Stoptober can sign up with their primary care physician or via www.stoptober.nl. The 28-day smoke-free journey begins on October 1. Participants receive daily support and encouragement to stick with it, for example through motivational posts and videos on social media, Stoptober.tv, and the Stoptober app.