About Us
The north-east has the highest smoking rates in the country. Tobacco remains the single biggest cause of preventable death and disease in the region and addressing this issue is vital if there is to be any reduction in health inequalities and subsequent related problems.
As a region, the north east has examined how best to address tobacco issues and these negotiations have involved a range of partners including the Association of North East Councils, the Regional Assembly, the Public Health Group North East, Primary Care Trusts and both Strategic Health Authorities. It has been agreed that a Regional Tobacco Strategy is needed, delivered by a coalition of organisations and partners under the umbrella term of Fresh Smoke Free North East (SFNE).
The establishment of the Fresh SFNE Office, a dedicated tobacco control office based on international best practice was an important development in the region. The Office works very closely with the Smoke Free North East Regional Alliance and the various local tobacco networks. The Fresh Smoke Free North East Office is funded by the Primary Care Trusts in the region and by Public Health Group North East. The North East is the only region in England to adopt such an approach and there has been a great deal of interest in this initiative.
Monitoring and reporting
An expert Advisory Panel made up of key people from a range of organisations across the region was established prior to the launch of the Fresh Smoke Free North East Office.
The primary role of the Panel is to guide the strategic direction for all key elements of the work of the Fresh Smoke Free North East Office and to ensure that the strongest evidence base is followed. The secondary role of the Panel is to foster multi-agency working within the region and to ensure that tobacco control is addressed as a cross cutting issue. Formal terms of reference have been developed.
A Management Board has been established to oversee to the day to day running of the office. Prior to the establishment of the Panel a short life multi disciplinary steering group was overseeing the setting up of the office.
There is regular reporting on performance to the Advisory Panel and the Management Board from the Director of the Office.
