Florence Aku

Treating Tobacco Dependency Team Lead for Mental Health

Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust

Biography

Florence is a dedicated general nurse and the lead for the Treating Tobacco Dependency programme at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Trust (GMMH). With a strong commitment to health promotion and reducing health inequalities, Florence oversees the implementation of smoke-free initiatives across GMMH, striving to create healthier environments within mental health services. Since joining the tobacco dependency program in 2021, Florence has been instrumental in embedding smoke-free policies, delivering smoking cessation interventions, and training staff to support service users in overcoming tobacco dependency. Her role is pivotal in ensuring that all mental health service users have access to effective support and treatment options to help them quit smoking. Holding a master’s degree in international public health, Florence is passionate about closing the gap in healthcare disparities. Her future goal is to expand tobacco dependency support across all mental health services within GMMH, promoting a smoke-free future that addresses the unique needs of mental health patients and tackles health inequalities at the systemic level.