What LGBTQ+ Users Told Us About the Smoke Free App

The qualitative evaluation carried out by Bluegrass Research, explored the experiences of LGBTQ+ users of the Smoke Free App living in London.

Watch Sonya Dixon from Bluegrass in the full video below to learn more about the experiences of LGBTQ+ Smoke Free App users and the lessons they offer for creating more inclusive stop smoking support.

Through a series of in-depth interviews, participants shared what motivated them to use the app and which features they found most helpful during their quit journey.

While many of the app’s strengths reflected those valued by all users, including its convenience, flexibility and practical tools  several themes emerged that were particularly important to LGBTQ+ participants.

Users highlighted the value of non-judgemental support, with many describing the app and its community features as providing a “safe space”. The anonymity offered by a digital platform was also seen as beneficial, particularly for those who had experienced stigma or felt reluctant to seek face-to-face support. For others, connecting with a community of people working towards the same goal helped reduce feelings of isolation and strengthened their motivation to quit.

These findings reinforce the importance of ensuring stop smoking services are inclusive, accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.

The London Tobacco Alliance is also pleased to be working with LGBT HERO once again as preparations begin for Stop Smoking London LGBTQ+ Week 2026. Together, we will continue to raise awareness of the support available to LGBTQ+ Londoners who want to quit smoking and promote approaches that help reduce smoking-related inequalities.