KNOWSLEY CLEANS UP!

Knowsley Council have become the first council to be awarded the National Clean Air Award from the Roy Castle Lung foundation.

The Gold award, the most prestigious of the awards, is presented to businesses who operate a full and proper smoking policy to protect non smokers from the harmful effects of second hand smoke, and provides help for smokers who want to quit.

The council became a smoke free employer on 1st April 2004, and all of its offices and public spaces have become no smoking areas.

Claire Eatock, a council employee, said: “The working environment is better now that we have a smoke free workplace. I also think that is healthier for customers and visitors who don’t have to enter buildings that might contain cigarette smoke”.

Councillor Brian O’Hare, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate and Customer Services, said “Being the first council to receive this award really demonstrates our commitment to change, gives us the opportunity to be a role model for other businesses in the local area, and reaffirms our image as an innovative council, leading the way on health and social issues”.

Knowsley Council is offering free support to businesses wanting to introduce no-smoking policies and holds the franchise for the National Clean Air Award allowing them to make the Award to other businesses and organisations in Knowsley. If you would like more information about the award scheme or would like advice on introducing a smoking policy, please contact Shane Knott, Workplace Smoking Adviser in the Department of Corporate and Customer Services on 0151 443 5438.

National Clean Air Award Manager Tina Williams said “I was delighted to present Knowsley with the Gold Award they are to be congratulated on their achievement. Their actions demonstrate their caring attitude to their staff and customers and by supporting other businesses to implement effective no-smoking policies the impact on local health will be considerable.”

Pictured: Tina Williams, National Clean Air Manager from the Roy Castle Lung Foundation, presents the certificates to Shane Knott and Cllr Brian O’Hare (standing)

November 10 th 2004

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