The competency framework identifies the core and advanced competences required for the delivery of stop smoking support.
The competency framework updates the NCSCT Training Standard and addresses new skills for delivering tailored, person-centred support with a focus on priority groups and people with additional needs.
This competency framework is adapted from the framework developed as part of a collaboration between fifteen local authorities within Humber and North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire NHS Integrated Care Boards (Breathe), and the NCSCT.
Last updated: August 2025
The NCSCT Training Standard was replaced in 2026 by the Competency framework for stop smoking practitioners
This document lists the learning outcomes of training courses for stop smoking practitioners founded upon evidence-based behaviour change techniques and approved by a panel of key stakeholders and experts convened by the NCSCT.
This current version was updated in 2018.
This 2026 review provides strong evidence that investing in training healthcare professionals in evidence-based smoking cessation interventions leads to measurable improvements in patient quit outcomes.
The review looked at brief forms of training such as VBA+ and higher intensity training. The reviews main findings include:
We have several DVDs available to support materials from the NCSCT training programme. Please see below for details on the DVDs we offer.
To order one of the training DVDs please send an email to enquiries@ncsct.co.uk.
Very Brief Advice on Smoking training DVD
Product code: VBADVD
A short training film modelling how to deliver Very Brief Advice on Smoking (VBA) to people who smoke and giving the evidence for this lifesaving intervention.
It trains healthcare professionals in the ease and effectiveness of implementing VBA: Ask, Advise, Act. Taken from the NCSCT online module, this film can be used as a stand-alone resource for local training courses.
30 Seconds Very Brief Advice on Smoking DVD
Product code: 30DVD
This engaging short film has been developed for GPs and other healthcare professionals to help increase the quality and frequency of VBA given to patients who smoke. Designed for use as part of the NCSCT online module, this film can also be used as a stand-alone resource for local training courses.
Very Brief Advice on Secondhand Smoke DVD
Product code: SHSDVD
In this powerful film, people who smoke talk about the impact of working with their families to help create smokefree environments for their children. It can be used as part of the NCSCT online training module or as a stand-alone resource for local training courses.