Background Current national policy in the UK is to make all psychiatric inpatient areas non-smoking by the end of 2018.

Methods A mixed qualitative approach, using a survey with a semi-structured format and a World Café method.

Discussion This pilot project explored views and experiences of staff and patients in making an inpatient recovery unit a smoke-free zone. A number of issues that were causing anxiety in patients and staff members were identified.

Conclusion The focus group generated a number of possible interventions which may help to achieve a smoke-free environment while supporting inpatients who are giving up smoking.