The Scottish Government issued two research publications today which are related to smoking in Scotland:
External Review of ASH Scotland and External Review of Partnership Action on Tobacco and Health (PATH)
“ASH Scotland has achieved much in respect of its external impact and effectiveness to date. It is praised by stakeholders for its partnership working, which provides added value; the Scottish Tobacco Control Alliance ( STCA) and STCA bulletin were cited as particularly valuable by stakeholders. In addition to national alliances, ASH Scotland is active in the creation, building and support of local tobacco control alliances.”
“Most stakeholders spoke very highly of PATH as an organisation, although some were not clear about how it differed from ASH Scotland. Both organisations benefit greatly from their complementary skills and activities. PATH staff are generally seen as being very professional and approachable and their emphasis on evidence-based working is greatly valued. They are also flexible and respond well to suggestions for improvement, new challenges and changed circumstances. In addition, PATH is seen as providing a vital source of advice and help (e.g. by promoting networks and signposting those with queries to others addressing similar issues). This function is particularly valued by those from the non-Central Belt Health Boards, who can otherwise feel somewhat isolated from developments in tobacco control and smoking cessation.”
