A new NHS scheme will give up to £385 to pregnant women who give up smoking.

The pilot scheme, launched by North West Anglia Foundation Trust and NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, will offer One4ALL shopping vouchers to mothers-to-be who quit smoking.

The vouchers will be given to those who commit to stop smoking and can prove they have stayed smoke-free throughout their pregnancy and after giving birth.

The vouchers, which can be used at various shops and brands, will be distributed at regular intervals from a confirmed quit day up to 52 weeks after quitting.

As part of the scheme, carbon monoxide readings will be taken to confirm the women are not smoking.

Lesley Deacon, deputy chief nurse at NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of complications, including low birth weight, premature birth and stillbirth, and we want to do everything possible to help encourage and support people to stop smoking.

“Community midwives will speak with anyone eligible to take part in the scheme.

"We also understand though that some people might not be comfortable telling their midwife that they are smoking during pregnancy, however we would urge you to speak to your midwife for help and support with stopping smoking, it’s the best thing you can do for you and your unborn baby’s health.”

Women involved in the scheme will also be asked to recruit a significant other to support them in quitting smoking.

This person could be a partner, friend, or family member, and will receive £60 if the mother-to-be is successful in quitting smoking and remains smoke-free 12 weeks after giving birth.

Smoking during pregnancy restricts the essential oxygen supply to the baby, meaning their heart must beat harder every time the mother smokes.