Virgin Holiday & Skcin Join Forces to Encourage Safer Sun whilst on hols!

VIRGIN HOLIDAYS LINKS UP WITH LEADING SUN SAFETY AWARENESS CHARITY TO PROMOTE SENSIBLE TANNING

NEW PARTNERSHIP WILL RUN THROUGH 2014 AND FEATURE A RANGE OF INITIATIVES FOR CUSTOMERS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING THEM TO ENJOY THE SUN SAFELY

Virgin Holidays will this week announce a new partnership with the leading sun safety awareness charity, SKCIN, to help inform its customers concerning sensible tanning practices as they begin to make their holiday plans for 2014. A first of its kind in the UK travel industry, and fronted by the official Virgin Holidays launch ‘Tanbassador’ and ex-Olympic swimmer Mark Foster, the charity partnership will see a range of initiatives rolled out over the next 12 months both here and in the destinations Virgin Holidays customers will visit.

The Virgin Holidays/SKCIN partnership launches with a joint information page on the Virgin Holidays website (www.virginholidays.co.uk/tanaware) which customers will be encouraged to visit at the time of booking their holiday and before they travel, where they will find essential information and tips on how to ensure they and their families stay safe in the sun and avoid sunburn whilst on holiday. From January, a range of further initiatives will be rolled out, including:

• Distribution of 10,000 information booklets across the Virgin Holidays shop network
• Inclusion of an information leaflet in all customer ticket wallets
• The creation of a jointly-branded microsite for customers to learn more about sun safety, plus regular social media and email communications to the Virgin Holidays community to support the message
• Retail staff training on how to advise customers on the essential do’s and don’ts of tanning
• Activity packs and a special children’s book produced earlier this year by SKCIN featuring George, the Sun Safe Superstar will also be distributed to flagship stores, and made available in Virgin Holidays’ v-room lounges in London Gatwick and Manchester and its Concierge Lounges across the globe.
• The appointment of a Safe Sun Concierge in each resort location who will receive additional training on spotting customers who are in danger of getting burnt, and how to help with any necessary preventative actions they might need to take.

Andrew Shelton, Virgin Holidays’ Marketing Director said: “Nothing says ‘I’ve had a fantastic holiday’ like a sun tan, and a recent informal poll showed that over sixty per cent of our customers consider it to be one of the most important things they want when they book with us. But we want them all to be safe in the sun – to be tan aware – and this unique partnership with SKCIN will help us educate and inform them before they go.”

Charlotte Fionda of SKCIN also commented: “We know that most Brits like to tan when they are on holiday and we have to be realistic about this, we cannot expect them to stay out of the sun completely when holidaying in warmer climes.  So the advice we are giving is that want people to enjoy the sun and enjoy their holiday, but to do so as safely as possible without burning their skin. To us, it is really important that holiday goers are educated and understand that if they choose to tan, to do so sensibly and responsibly. Partnering with a brand with the scale and influence of Virgin Holidays makes perfect sense and will mean our messages reach a very wide audience. We’re very excited by the potential that this partnership offers.”

Virgin Holidays’ ‘Tanbassador’ Mark Foster, who is championing the launch of the partnership, stated:  “When I was training and competing, myself and my fellow swimmers had to be very conscious of excessive sun exposure, and had to learn very quickly about how to prevent possible damage to our skin. I’m pleased to be associated with an initiative that recognises how important a holiday glow is to most and provides the information needed to be safe in the sun and in the water.”

-ENDS-

About Virgin Holidays:
Virgin Holidays is the UK’s favourite worldwide holiday company. Founded in 1985 on the Virgin principles of excellent customer service, value, reliability, responsibility and a sense of fun, it has used its entrepreneurial heritage and passion for innovation to benefit customers and communities around the world.

The brand is particularly known for the ‘magic touches’ it has brought to market.  From the world’s first dedicated airport leisure lounges to the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship in the Caribbean, Virgin Holidays puts its customers and the communities it works with at the heart of its commitment to do things differently.

In 2013, it was once again voted Best Overall Tour Operator to the USA, Canada and the Caribbean at the prestigious, consumer-voted, British Travel Awards.

About SKCIN: (The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity)
Set-up in 1996 by the family of Karen Clifford who sadly lost her brave battle with skin cancer on New Years Eve 2005.  Everything Skcin does is aimed at educating and raising awareness of sun safety and the need for early detection of skin cancers in order to save lives. They are particularly keen to work with 'at risk groups'; those particularly susceptible to the dangers of over exposure to UV.  The charity is always busy spreading the sun safety message, distributing literature and running awareness campaigns.






Key objectives are:
·       To significantly raise awareness of skin cancer
·       To promote prevention and early detection
·       To campaign for cultural and educational change

Skcin are the only skin cancer specific charity with national status, for more information visit www.skcin.org

UV tanning off NVQ 3 Beauty Qualification

…..we’ve done it!!!!

We are delighted to report that we have been advised by the Hair and Beauty Therapy Authority (HABIA) that,

“At this present time we do have UV tanning as an optional unit in our NVQ Level 3 Beauty Therapy Qualifications.  This will be reviewed next year and will be removed from the structure and we have already advised and will continue to advise the Awarding Organisations not to include UV tanning in any future qualifications structures.”

BACKGROUND
Since 2001 BASC has campaigned to HABIA and subsequently the Awarding (Lead) Bodies and the Beauty Therapy Associations to remove indoor tanning devices (for cosmetic reasons) from their beauty therapy qualifications and therapist membership insurance.    We asked, at the very least, that manufacturers of indoor tanning devices and the premises providing this service stop using the word “safe” in their advertising and be required to display a notice that clearly states that using this equipment may cause skin cancer, cataracts and premature ageing of the skin (as is required in Scotland since 2009).  The S-NVQ Level 3 Beauty Therapy Qualification, where this salon treatment is currently listed as an optional module, will again be under review in 2013-14. The British Association of Skin Camouflage is an expert adviser to the S-NVQ Revision Panel and we shall once again present our plea for action and/or consideration.

campaign supporters included
BASC patrons:-
Baroness Masham of Ilton
Tim Goodacre (BAPRAS)
Andrew Wright (Dermatologist)
John Buckle (Maxillofacial Prosthetists)
(and the late Peter Lapsley)


also from the All Party Parliamentary Group for Skin
Lord Barry Jones  and  Professor John Hawk

the Dermatology Council for England
the Dermatology Council for Scotland
SKCIN
Skin Cancer UK
the British Association of Skin Cancer Nurse Specialists
Crawford Pharmaceuticals
Sinclair Pharmaceuticals
Cranage Healthcare
Derma UK (Covermark)
Charles H Fox (Dermacolor)
L’Oreal-Vichy (Dermablend)
Thomas Blake Cosmetic Creams (Veil)

and of course YOU our valued Members and Cover readers

MSD Anti-PD1 Drug Announcement

Encouraging press release and information on MSD's new Anti-PD-1 Immunotherapy for advanced melanoma.

Additional Interim Data for MSD’s Investigational Anti-PD-1 Immunotherapy,
MK-3475, Shows Estimated Overall Survival Rate of 81 per cent at One Year in Patients with Advanced Melanoma


Hoddesdon,18^th November 2013 – Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, has announced additional data for MK-3475, an investigational anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, in patients with advanced melanoma that showed an estimated overall survival rate of 81 per cent at one year across all MK-3475 monotherapy doses evaluated. This is the first time overall survival data have been presented from the cohort of 135 patients with advanced melanoma enrolled in MSD’s ongoing Phase IB clinical trial (PN 001) for MK-3475. Researchers presented the findings in an oral plenary session at the 10th International Congress of the Society for Melanoma Research in Philadelphia.
“New agents are needed for patients with advanced melanoma,” said Dr. Caroline Robert, head of Dermatology at Gustave Roussy, Cancer Campus, Grand Paris. “I am excited by the results seen for MK-3475 to date as a single agent and believe these findings support further study both as a monotherapy and in combination in various solid tumours.”
The objective response rate (patients who had either a complete or partial response) across all doses improved with longer duration of follow-up; at the time of this analysis, the objective response rate was 41 per cent (9 per cent complete response rate), as evaluated by a blinded central review committee using RECIST 1.1 (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours). While the majority of responses to MK-3475 treatment occurred early (within the first 12 weeks), responses and changes from partial to complete response continued to occur after six months of treatment. Partial and complete responses occurred as late as 48 and 70 weeks. Median duration of response and median overall survival have yet to be reached for any dose evaluated.
Dr. James Larkin, Consultant Medical Oncologist, The Royal Marsden, “I am extremely encouraged by the results observed to date, including the rate and duration of responses, in patients with advanced melanoma on this trial.  The prospect and outcome for people with this type of advanced melanoma cancer looks very promising using immunotherapy.”
“These results provide further insight into the therapeutic properties of MK-3475 in patients with advanced melanoma,” said Dr. Roger M. Perlmutter, president, MSD Research Laboratories. “Simply put, our data make us hopeful that this novel investigational therapy could potentially provide meaningful benefits to patients suffering from this malignant disease.”

-ENDS-
Note to Editors

For more information, please contact: 
Suzie Collett, Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited at susan.collett@merck.com T: + 44 (0)1992 455471
OR Louise Collins, Reynolds MacKenzie, T: +44 (0)207 861 2813 M: +44 (0)7584 560 584 louise.c@reynoldsmackenzie.com

Phase 1B Trial (PN 001) Trial Design
The Phase IB trial (PN 001) is an ongoing multi-centre, single-arm, open-label study evaluating MK-3475 monotherapy in more than 1,000 patients with diverse late-stage cancers (metastatic carcinoma)—predominantly lung and melanoma. Three dosing regimens of MK-3475 were evaluated, including 10mg/kg every two weeks, 10mg/kg every three weeks or 2mg/kg every three weeks. The primary endpoint of the study is overall response rate and the secondary endpoints are progression-free survival and overall survival as measured by immune-related response criteria and centrally evaluated RECIST criteria.

Additional Results for MK-3475 in Advanced Melanoma
This additional analysis provides approximately five months of follow-up for objective response rate beyond the interim results for MK-3475 from the 135 patients in the advanced melanoma cohort presented at the 2013 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual meeting and published in the New England Journal of Medicine. In addition, this is the first time overall survival and progression-free survival have been presented from this study.
The previously reported objective response rate across all doses was 38 per cent (CI 95%: 25 to 44 per cent) (per RECIST criteria). In the analysis presented today, the overall response rate was 41 per cent (CI 95%: 32 to 51 per cent), reflecting additional responses to MK-3475. In addition, 88 per cent (43/49) of patients with a partial or complete response showed no evidence of disease progression. Similar response rates were observed between ipilimumab-pre-treated and ipilimumab-naïve patients.
At this analysis, the maximum ongoing duration of response recorded was 65 weeks (range 8+ to 65+). The disease control rate across doses for patients in the melanoma cohort was 61 per cent (CI 95%: 52 to 70 per cent), and median progression-free survival at time of analysis was 36 weeks. The rates of treatment-related adverse events were consistent with those previously observed and included: fatigue (37%), pruritus (26%), rash (22%), diarrhoea (21%), arthralgia (17%), vitiligo (14%), headache (13%), nausea (12%), asthenia (11%), myalgia (11%) and AST increase (10%). Grade 3–4 treatment-related adverse events that occurred in more than one patient were AST increase, fatigue, rash and renal failure (n=2 each).

Clinical Development of MK-3475 in Advanced Melanoma
MSD has completed enrolment in a Phase II registration trial (PN 002) comparing two doses of MK-3475 versus chemotherapy in patients with advanced melanoma who have progressed after prior therapy (see clinicaltrials.gov). A Phase III registration trial of MK-3475 versus ipilimumab in ipilimumab-naïve patients with advanced melanoma is ongoing (see clinicaltrials.gov). The company plans to initiate combination trials this year and in early 2014 in melanoma and other cancers.

About MK-3475
Many tumours are able to evade the immune system through a mechanism that exploits the PD-1 inhibitory checkpoint protein. MK-3475 is an investigational, highly selective anti-PD-1 immunotherapy designed to restore the natural ability of the immune system to recognise and target cancer cells by selectively achieving dual ligand blockade (PD-L1 and PD-L2) of the PD-1 protein. By blocking PD-1, MK-3475 enables activation of the immune system’s T-cells that target cancer by essentially releasing a brake on the immune system.
MK-3475 is currently being studied in eight clinical trials estimated to enrol over 3,000 patients across a broad range of cancer types, including: bladder, colorectal, gastric, head and neck, melanoma, non-small cell lung, triple negative breast and haematological malignancies. Additional trials, both as monotherapy and in combination with other cancer therapies, are planned. The expansion of the MK-3475 clinical development program is based on preliminary clinical evidence from MSD’s large foundational Phase IB trial (PN 001) evaluating MK-3475 monotherapy in more than 1,000 patients with diverse late-stage cancers (metastatic carcinoma).

About Breakthrough Therapy Designation
In April 2013, MSD announced that MK-3475 received a Breakthrough Therapy Designation for advanced melanoma from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This designation for an investigational drug is intended to expedite the development and review of a candidate that is planned for use, alone or in combination, to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition when preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the drug may demonstrate substantial improvement over existing therapies on one or more clinically significant endpoints. The U.S. FDA Safety and Innovation Act include a provision that allows sponsors to request that an investigational drug be designated as a Breakthrough Therapy.

Advanced Melanoma
There are two types of skin cancer: malignant melanoma which is less common but more serious; and non-melanoma skin cancer, which is more common but not as serious. Around 12,800 cases of malignant melanoma were diagnosed in 2010 in the UK, that’s around 35 people every day. Malignant melanoma incidence rates in the UK have more than quadrupled over the last thirty years. Like most cancers, skin cancer is more common with increasing age, but malignant melanoma is disproportionately high in younger people. More than one third of all cases of malignant melanoma occur in people under 55. Advanced melanoma means the cancer has spread from where it started to another part of the body. Advanced melanoma includes unresectable stage III or metastatic melanoma (stage IV)

Please refer to link below (Cancer Research UK) for more information about advanced melanoma cancer, and the incidence in the UK.

http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-help/type/melanoma/
http://publications.cancerresearchuk.org/downloads/Product/CS_KF_SKIN.pdf

About MSD
We believe the most important thing we make is a difference. We operate in more than 140 countries and through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and consumer care and animal health products we work with customers to bring innovative healthcare solutions to those who need them the most. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programmes and partnerships. For more information visit www.msd-uk.com.  MSD is a trade name of Merck & Co., Inc., with headquarters in Whitehouse Station, N.J., U.S.A.

MSD Forward-Looking Statement
This news release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbour provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of MSD’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline products that the products will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.
Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and healthcare legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward healthcare cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; MSD’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of MSD’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.
MSD undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in MSD’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

-Ends-

Skcin attend European Parliament Skin Cancer Awareness Day

On Tuesday 5^th November 2013, Skcin had the honour of attending a Skin Cancer Awareness Day, which took place in the European Parliament in Brussels.  The Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL), the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology  (EADV) and Euromelanoma came together with Skcin and leading members of the European Parliament (MEP’s) to raise awareness of the most commonly occurring cancer in Europe.  The meeting focused in particular on the alarming and increasing burden of skin cancer in Europe for a key at risk group, outdoor workers.



The meeting highlighted the social and economic significance of skin cancer as an occupational disease and called for actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancers to be classified as an occupational disease, against certain criteria, for all outdoor workers across European.  MEP’s were supportive of the call and will be addressing their colleagues across the member states to gain recognition for the disease amongst this population.  Skcin presented on the Sun Safe Workplaces accreditation scheme, which allows employers to fulfill their duty of care to employees when it comes to suns safety and the over exposure to UV, by providing a collection of free resources.




Sun Safe Workplace resources include, policy and risk assessment information and documentation, a detailed employer guide on the subject and a number of resources to educate employees on Sun Safety and the dangers of over exposure to UV and the importance of checking their skin on a regular basis.  By working through a number of steps online employers can gain their Sun Safe Workplace accreditation for implementing risk assessments, policy and employee education programs.  This information attracted a lot of interest and Skcin hope to be working more on a European level with the Sun Safe Workplaces scheme in the future.

Melton Under Fives Preschool Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Melton Under Fives Preschool for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Melton Under Fives Preschool have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“children have been read the story and have been singing the song as they put on the suncream.”

(Sheila Ling - Melton Under Fives Preschool)

“we will carry on with this program next year and will reread the story and teach the new children the song. The group has also bought wrist bands for each child telling them how long they can be outside in the sun for. Also the group has bought a digital monitor which gives an accurate reading of the suns strength and the time allowed to be outside.”

(Sheila Ling - Melton Under Fives Preschool)

Melton Under Fives Preschool is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Melton Under Fives Preschool for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“It was a fairly simple procedure to gain this status and one that we shall put into our Ofsted paperwork to let them know what we have achieved in helping to keep our children safe and protected.”

(Sheila Ling - Melton Under Fives Preschool)

Hillview Under Fives Pre-school Playgroup is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Hillview Under Fives Pre-school Playgroup for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“The information you have provided is fantastic, as a self funded organisation it is really hard to get information that we don't have to pay for and for this I thank you very much. Anne Brewster”

(Anne Brewster - Hillview Under Fives Pre-school Playgroup)

Birstall Pre-school Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Birstall Pre-school for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Birstall Pre-school have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children enjoyed the story and the pictures in the book, they related the story to themselves and their own experiences through the summer months.”

(Clare Beaumont - Birstall Pre-school)

“We at Birstall Preschool make a pledge to regularly make use of the resources provided by the sunsafe nurseries.”

(Clare Beaumont - Birstall Pre-school)

Lauriston Nursery Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to Lauriston Nursery for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. Lauriston Nursery has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“We have sent out letters and fact sheets to all parents. All new children will be presented with a form in their new starts pack.”

(Ailsa Pirret - Lauriston Nursery )

“We bought a few spare sunhats for our children to use if parents forget to bring these in. All staff will act as appropriate role models with sun safety.”

(Ailsa Pirret - Lauriston Nursery )

Chetwynd Primary Academy Completes Step 4 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Lesson Plan

Congratulations to Chetwynd Primary Academy for carrying out the ‘George the Sun Safe Superstar’ Lesson Plan.

Lesson Plan photo submitted by Chetwynd Primary Academy

“Each class in the whole school completed the activities based around 'George the Sunsfafe Superstar' story. The children really enjoyed the work and there was a noticeable difference in the the care children and staff were taking to look after their skin in the summer months.”

(Cara Miles - Chetwynd Primary Academy)

Roosters Kids Club Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Roosters Kids Club for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Roosters Kids Club have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children really enjoyed the song and still sing it. Some of the older children did a clapping session to the song.”

(Angela Marriott - Roosters Kids Club )

“We will continue to remind parents of the dangers of the sun and harmful raysand use the resources for all new parents & children.”

(Angela Marriott - Roosters Kids Club )

Vickys Childminding is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Vickys Childminding for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“The children and I have enjoyed it a lot, its a very fun and child friendly way of getting a very serious message across both to children and their parents.

Thank you

From all at Vickys Childminding x

”

(Vicky Hampson - Vickys Childminding)

Vickys Childminding Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Vickys Childminding for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Vickys Childminding have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“THe children have loved slip slop slap song, we sing it regularly and the children are very aware of the song and we read the story and they are all sunsafe superstars.

”

(Vicky Hampson - Vickys Childminding)

“We are a childminding setting and have really enjoyed using the site and I will continue to use it and the information and downloads you provide.”

(Vicky Hampson - Vickys Childminding)

Cuddly Koalas Preschool Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Cuddly Koalas Preschool for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Cuddly Koalas Preschool have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The older children engaged well, and we will work on it again in the coming school year”

(Cait Faulkner - Cuddly Koalas Preschool)

“We pledge to always ensure that children are fully protected in the sun, reminding them of the importance of 'slip, slap, slop' and making sure that parents are aware of the importance of sun protection for their children as well as for themselves. We will ensure that we are seen putting suncream on too, so that the children see the importance for everybody.”

(Cait Faulkner - Cuddly Koalas Preschool)

Walter Powell Pre-school Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to Walter Powell Pre-school for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. Walter Powell Pre-school has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“These will be kept on record and supplied to all newcomers.”

(Karen Gallacher - Walter Powell Pre-school)

“We have spare hats and sun cream for those children that have not brought these items to use.we both will follow the guidelines with regard to sun safety.”

(Karen Gallacher - Walter Powell Pre-school)

Barleyhurst Park Pre-school Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Barleyhurst Park Pre-school for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Barleyhurst Park Pre-school

“we have a large canopy outside to enable children to play under sheltered from the sun.”

(Dawn Garety - Barleyhurst Park Pre-school)

Barleyhurst Park Pre-school is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Barleyhurst Park Pre-school for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“very easy to use and informative .thank you”

(Dawn Garety - Barleyhurst Park Pre-school)

Birstall Pre-school is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Birstall Pre-school for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“We have really enjoyed being a part of sunsafe nurseries and found it engaging and interesting,also very easy to follow and complete.”

(Clare Beaumont - Birstall Pre-school)

Stepping Stone Pre School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Stepping Stone Pre School for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Stepping Stone Pre School have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“Our children are now very aware that they must wear a hat when going outside. They tell their parents that they must have a hat and can independently go and find a 'spare' one if they have left their own at home”

(Sue Clark - Stepping Stone Pre School)

“Resourses now in use and all new parents asked to sign an agreement”

(Sue Clark - Stepping Stone Pre School)

Skcin attend 2nd International Conference on UV & Skin

From 10-13th September, Skcin were kindly sponsored by Schuco International to attend the 2nd International Conference on UV & Skcin in the German capital of Berlin.

The aim of the conference was to learn and share knowledge on what can be done to prevent skin cancer. Leading figures in the world of UV and skin cancer prevention came to Berlin to speak to public health professionals, communication professionals, researchers, decision makers and other professionals working with UV and skin cancer prevention.

The conference also provided short lectures in addition to selected abstracts, workshops and guided poster walks.  The event was a real opportunity to discuss and to network with other professionals and followed on from the 1st International Conference on UV and Skin Cancer Prevention that Skcin attended back in September 2011.

Gislingham Playgroup Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Gislingham Playgroup for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Gislingham Playgroup

“We have three shaded areas, a gazebo over the sand pit, shaded wooden seat/bench and shaded play den. Also natural shade from the building and trees in the garden”

(Debbie Hunt - Gislingham Playgroup)

HOLYROOD PLAYGROUP Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to HOLYROOD PLAYGROUP for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by HOLYROOD PLAYGROUP

“We have a tree, a small childs gazebo and the large events canopy giving us a large area in the shade.”

(TESSA SPILLER - HOLYROOD PLAYGROUP)

Victoria's Childcare- Childminder is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Victoria's Childcare- Childminder for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“Easy and thorough, thanks.”

(Victoria Sadler - Victoria's Childcare- Childminder)

Roosters Kids Club is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Roosters Kids Club for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“The Sun safe Nursey has been a really good scheme not only for the children but staff. Its a good to remind parents & children about sun damage and danger of the harmful rays.

We now have a big box with hats & sun screen which is wonderful.

The scheme was quiet easy to access and i like that there are different stages to complete .

the status is really good when ever you log ack on it it reminds you were you are with it.

We cant wait to put up our certificate and congratulate all for taking part in a fab scheme .

”

(Angela Marriott - Roosters Kids Club )

Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“This process has been discussed at length at a staff meeting and all staff are aware of the importance of ensuring that the children are protected, and that the staff need to be good role models for the children. The resources are great and will be used to enforce the message of sun safety.”

(Carol Sudder - Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school)

Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school

“The pre-school has a large open outdoor play area. We have a small covered pergola which provides some shade, however on sunny days we make our own shelters and covered areas with material and use large parasols to ensure that there are lots of areas for the children to play in the shade.”

(Carol Sudder - Warley St John's Under Fives Pre-school)

Vickys Childminding Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to Vickys Childminding for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. Vickys Childminding has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“Fantastic scheme, 2 year old told her older sister why she needs suncream!”

(Vicky Hampson - Vickys Childminding)

“I will act as an appropriate role model to the children in my care. I always have spare hats, sun cream and t shirts available”

(Vicky Hampson - Vickys Childminding)

Clocktower Childcare Ltd is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Clocktower Childcare Ltd for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“The resources are fantastic, and a scheme like this needs to be publicised more as we would have joined years ago! It is a huge campaign that needs embedding in children from a young age. The system is simple to use but in depth enough to ensure practitioners are definitely implementing it. Thank you.”

(Sally Wingham - Clocktower Childcare Ltd)

CROCUS EARLY YEARS CENTRE is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to CROCUS EARLY YEARS CENTRE for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“I have found this whole process really easy to follow and understand the importance of becoming a sun safe nursery as I have suffered with Skin cancer so this topic is very close to my heart. I have also passed all this information on to other nurseries within my region and encouraged them to register.”

(JOANNE HAYES - CROCUS EARLY YEARS CENTRE)

Little Acorns Pre-School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Little Acorns Pre-School for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Little Acorns Pre-School have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“Children enjoyed the story and song. We also copied the colouring-in sheet about George and Alice in the sun - some children coloured in the shoulders red so they showed understanding and we talked about how to avoid red shoulders.”

(Nicola Benge - Little Acorns Pre-School)

“We will return to the sun safety topic in September for the new children and then in the following Spring & Summer terms, issuing the parent letter to new children.”

(Nicola Benge - Little Acorns Pre-School)

Caterpillars Pre-School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Caterpillars Pre-School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Caterpillars Pre-School

“We fund raised for a neww shelter to be built on the side of our cabin. It is now built & used as part of our extension to free flow learning. ”

(Chrystal Clark - Caterpillars Pre-School )

The Kids' Academy is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to The Kids' Academy for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“This is a great scheme and the resources are really useful, especially for our parents. We have found that the fact sheets is great and many staff did not realise that we could check the level of UV rays in the area.”

(Jessica Purser - The Kids' Academy)

St Michael's CE Primary School is now an Official Sun Safe School!

Congratulations to St Michael's CE Primary School for obtaining their Sun Safe School Status & Award

“We have thoroughly enjoyed working for our Sun Safe School Award. The children are very enthusiastic about the initiative and we have been very well supported by parents. The hats that we have bought have now been added to our compulsory uniform list for our new intake. The very hot weather we are enjoying has been an excellent tester for being sun safe. We found the process clear, well organised and easy to access.”

(Jo Holt - St Michael's CE Primary School)

Sherington Pre-school Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Sherington Pre-school for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Sherington Pre-school have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“We have read George the sun safe superstar lots of times and have had lots of our own sun safe superstars! they love the story and the song and really enjoy doing the actions we have made up along with the song, they are great resources and it is even better that we can access them for free! ”

(Lauren Scott - Sherington Pre-school )

“We love the story and song and will definitely be using them on a regular basis especially in summer, and will be sending out the sun safe fact sheets at least once a year as we recognise just how important it is to be safe in the sun! ”

(Lauren Scott - Sherington Pre-school )

Sherington Pre-school Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Sherington Pre-school for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Sherington Pre-school

“Here is a picture of our play area with plenty of tree's and a lovely stripy awning which provides plenty of shade.”

(Lauren Scott - Sherington Pre-school )

Sun Safe Schools & Nurseries 1000

Superdrug & Skcin Celebrate 1,000 Sun Safe Schools & Nurseries sign ups

This summer, Superdrug has partnered with UK skin cancer charity, Skcin to support and promote its Sun Safe Schools and Nurseries award schemes. As the heat settles over the country Superdrug is delighted to announce that 1,000 schools and nurseries have now signed up to the scheme.

Sun Safe Schools is the first and only initiative of its kind that is dedicated to help schools and nurseries educate their pupils on the importance of being safe in the sun.  The accreditation scheme has been developed by Skcin, The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity, with the objective of preventing skin cancer in later life through a programme of early education.

To celebrate 1,000 schools and nurseries joining the scheme, Superdrug visited Langham Church of England Primary School in Rutland. Since signing up to the scheme at the beginning of the summer the school has been working its way through the free curriculum based worksheets, and other engaging resources to help the school become an official Sun Safe environment, ensuring all pupils it its care are adequately protected from the sun's harmful UV rays and learn how to enjoy the sun safely.

As the summer heat continues Skcin has launched a summer activity pack of activities available for parents to download free from their website - www.skcin.org

Matt Walburn, Superdrug Marketing Director comments; “We are delighted to have helped 1,000 schools and nurseries become sun safe. Our research earlier this year showed children as young as six want a tan which shows that early education is vital to create a cultural shift in tanning behaviour, which can only help lower the rates of skin cancer in the UK.”

For more information visit - www.sunsafeschools.co.uk  / www.sunsafenurseries.co.uk  

St Michael's CE Primary School Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to St Michael's CE Primary School for issuing letters and Sun Safety leaflets to the parents / guardians of all of their children. St Michael's CE Primary School have also pledged to make sure that all children have access to Sun Hats & Sunscreen and that all teachers at the school will be good role models with regard to sun safety.

“All parents have received a SunSafe letter and we have subsequently ordered hats from the website. Every family received the booklet and the response to this initiative has been positive. The children are now keeping a hat and sunscreen in school and each classroom has a hat and sunscreen box so children can access these items quickly and easily. Spare hats are also available in every classroom.”

“All staff, including teaching assistants and lunch time controllers have attended a meeting to discuss and agree to being role models in the playground. ”

(Jo Holt - St Michael's CE Primary School)

YORK HOUSE NURSERY Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to YORK HOUSE NURSERY for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by YORK HOUSE NURSERY

“We have a beautiful large garden with established trees along one side and a huge sheltered area along the other. Central to the space now is a huge walk in sand pit with bridge above to attach more shades. The children are taught to build dens and structures out of the sun and this encourages them to play in cooler areas”

(DEBORAH SHAW - YORK HOUSE NURSERY)

St Michael's CE Primary School Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to St Michael's CE Primary School for issuing letters and Sun Safety leaflets to the parents / guardians of all of their children. St Michael's CE Primary School have also pledged to make sure that all children have access to Sun Hats & Sunscreen and that all teachers at the school will be good role models with regard to sun safety.

“All parents have received a SunSafe letter and we have subsequently ordered hats from the website. Every family received the booklet and the response to this initiative has been positive. The children are now keeping a hat and sunscreen in school and each classroom has a hat and sunscreen box so children can access these items quickly and easily. Spare hats are also available in every classroom.”

“All staff, including teaching assistants and lunch time controllers have attended a meeting to discuss and agree to being role models in the playground. ”

(Jo Holt - St Michael's CE Primary School)

Willaston Pre-school is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Willaston Pre-school for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“This has been an excellent scheme and has provided a more robust Sun screen policy for our Pre-school. The children have enjoyed learning the Slip, slop, slap song and can often be heard singing it as they play. This helps to reinforce the importance of protecting their skin in a way that is easily understood by them.”

(Ann Darlington - Willaston Pre-school)

St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Introductory Assembly Plan

Congratulations to St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School for carrying out an introductory assembly about how to keep safe in the sun:

Assembly photo submitted by St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School

“Whole school assembly using the assembly plan. Children really enjoyed it and are following the 5 S's to sun safety”

(Curtis Sweetingham - St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School)

St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School Completes Step 4 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Lesson Plan

Congratulations to St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School for carrying out the ‘George the Sun Safe Superstar’ Lesson Plan.

Lesson Plan photo submitted by St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School

“Using the lesson plan, worksheets and story book I taught sun safe lessons in all classes. We then made a sun safe display with work, photos and key questions”

(Curtis Sweetingham - St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School)

St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School is now an Official Sun Safe School!

Congratulations to St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School for obtaining their Sun Safe School Status & Award

“Working towards gaining our Sun Safe School Status has really helped the school look at the procedures we needed to put in place to improve sun safety at school. We have implemented many new concepts such as the new sun hats, sun screen kept in school and since embarking on this project we have now installed a sun shelter in the playground. The whole school community is much more aware. Thank you”

(Curtis Sweetingham - St. Theresa's Catholic Primary School)

Golftyn CP School is now an Official Sun Safe School!

Congratulations to Golftyn CP School for obtaining their Sun Safe School Status & Award

“The whole school have thoroughly enjoyed carrying out all of the sun safe lessons! I believe that all of the children here at Golftyn are now Sun Safe Superstars!”

(Claire Thompson - Golftyn CP School)

Skcin Invited to speak in House of Commons

Anthony Hubbard from Skcin, spoke at the roundtable meeting on Tuesday 2^nd July in the House of Commons to discuss how we can combat the skin cancer ‘time-bomb’. Joined by chair Sian James MP and other speakers including TV's Dr Hilary Jones and Dr Raj Mallipeddi, Consultant Dermatologist at St Thomases Hospital, London. Their talks stimulated an excellent group discussion with Clincians, MPs and charity groups on how we can increase the prevention and early detection of skin cancer caused by long-term sun exposure.

Based on the discussions at the meeting a report is to be produced to highlight the key priorities, including specific calls to action to help raise the skin cancer 'time-bomb' issue up the political agenda, as well as preventative measures which need to be communicated to members of the general public. The report will look to identify measures to help prevent the development of the two main types of skin cancer – non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and melanoma – as well as how to combat actinic keratosis – a pre-malignant skin condition caused by sun damage with the potential to develop into cancer.

Stanton Road Primary School Completes Step 4 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Lesson Plan

Congratulations to Stanton Road Primary School for carrying out the ‘George the Sun Safe Superstar’ Lesson Plan.

Lesson Plan photo submitted by Stanton Road Primary School

“We passed the book round to each class and the teacher read the story to the children, it has been told now to all of the pupiks in our school, the children did a selection of the worksheets and designed some sun safety posters which we did as a competition in school”

(Debbie Richards - Stanton Road Primary School)

Bebington Pre School is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Bebington Pre School for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“The children have really enjoyed learning all about sun safety and we downloaded slip slap slop and they enjoyed listening to the song, and loved the george book ”

(Laura Ellis - Bebington Pre School)

Lewannick Preschool Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Lewannick Preschool for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Lewannick Preschool

“we use our "yellow house" in all weathers rain,shine snow. we have just recieved a large amount of money from a local event and will be purchasin a sun sail to provide more shade in the open.

”

(Alison Sleeman - Lewannick Preschool)

Stantonfields Pre-school Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Stantonfields Pre-school for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Stantonfields Pre-school

“We have three canopies in our outside area, one is a large permanent fixed canopy on our playground with two smaller fabric canopies on our grassed area for the children to shelter from the sun.”

(Marilyn Lewis - Stantonfields Pre-school)

Little Angels Nursery is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Little Angels Nursery for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“Thank you. We have had a lot of fun using the resources. The children are often to heard singing the 'Slip, Slop, Slap' song around the Nursery. As a seaside setting, we think that it is important to raise 'Sun Safe' awareness with both children and parents.”

(Pauline Burden - Little Angels Nursery)

Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School is now an Official Sun Safe School!

Congratulations to Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School for obtaining their Sun Safe School Status & Award

“This has been an easy to use and follow guide to helping everyone be more aware of sun safety. The children have really engaged but more importantly so have theparents and carers. Thank you!”

(Monica Paines - Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School)

Rainford Pre School And Play Group Ltd Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Rainford Pre School And Play Group Ltd for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Rainford Pre School And Play Group Ltd have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children enjoyed the book, colouring activites and the song. We continue to use these resourse.

When the children were colouring this was the perfect opportunity to talk about sun safety in our setting.”

(Karen Burke - Rainford Pre School And Play Group Ltd)

“The resouces will continue to be used in our setting and we will ensure all new children and parents are given the required information and we will keep reinforcing the sun safe message.”

(Karen Burke - Rainford Pre School And Play Group Ltd)

Rose Lodge Nursery School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Rose Lodge Nursery School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Rose Lodge Nursery School

“WE HAVE LARGE PORTABLE SUNSHADES FOR OUR GARDEN AND A PERMABUILD COVER FOR OUR COURTYARD AREA.”

(Gill Sandiford - Rose Lodge Nursery School)

Heddington Preschool is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Heddington Preschool for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“This is a very worthwhile and easy process to complete for any nursery or preschool and helps to educate the children on the importance of sun safety.”

(Leanne Weston - Heddington Preschool)

ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL is now an Official Sun Safe School!

Congratulations to ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL for obtaining their Sun Safe School Status & Award

“It has been fantastic for our school to be involved in the Sun Safe schools initiative. The children have thoroughly enjoyed participating in a range of activities, which promote sun safety. Our school has purchased sun hats for every child in our school. We have received 'Sun Safe Schools' enhancement from the local Healthy Schools Team and have featured in the local newspaper. Thank you for your continued support. ”

(CAROLINE LUKE - ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL)

ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL Completes Step 4 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Lesson Plan

Congratulations to ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL for carrying out the ‘George the Sun Safe Superstar’ Lesson Plan.

Lesson Plan photo submitted by ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL

“We held a 'Sun Safe Superstar' day, where the children engaged in a range of sun safe activities, including making sun hats, sun glasses, sun safe posters. ”

(CAROLINE LUKE - ALVASTON INFANT AND NURSERY SCHOOL)

Bowes Pre-School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Bowes Pre-School for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Bowes Pre-School have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“We have downloaded the Slip Slop Slap song onto CD and play it to the children whilst outside under our canopy, they are really enjoying singing it and reading the story.”

(Tracy Luck - Bowes Pre-School)

“We will keep sending out documents to parents of new starters to the school and keep reinforcing the sun safe message to the parents and children on a regular basis.”

(Tracy Luck - Bowes Pre-School)

Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School Completes Step 4 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Lesson Plan

Congratulations to Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School for carrying out the ‘George the Sun Safe Superstar’ Lesson Plan.

Lesson Plan photo submitted by Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School

“The children have all completed the sheets and all teachers have taught a specific lesson for sun safety. The teachers feedback include feeling that the lessons have made a big difference in the children's awareness of being sun safe.”

(Monica Paines - Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School)

Stanton Road Primary School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Shade

Congratulations to Stanton Road Primary School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Stanton Road Primary School

“we do have a field with lots of trees that the children can use in the summer, we also have 2 shaded shelters that the children do use a lot”

(Debbie Richards - Stanton Road Primary School)

Lewannick Preschool Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to Lewannick Preschool for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. Lewannick Preschool has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“Lewannick Preschool will keep all returned sun safe permission slips in each of the children's individual statutory information files. Our new parent packs will include the sun safe letter and fact sheet.”

(Alison Sleeman - Lewannick Preschool)

“Sun hats with rims have been purchased for staff and children. A factor 50 sunscreen is also available at all times. All practitioners are active role models in wearing sun hats and keeping to the shaded areas of the outdoor learning area.”

(Alison Sleeman - Lewannick Preschool)

Ordsall PreSchool is now an Official Sun Safe Nursery!

Congratulations to Ordsall PreSchool for obtaining their Sun Safe Nursery Status & Award

“Fun and factual website. Great information for parents and fun activities for the children.”

(Donna MacIntyre - Ordsall PreSchool)

Golftyn CP School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Introductory Assembly Plan

Congratulations to Golftyn CP School for carrying out an introductory assembly about how to keep safe in the sun:

Assembly photo submitted by Golftyn CP School

“We delivered the Sun Safe assembly to the juniors and the infants separately.



The assemblies were carried out in the first week back after half term to ensure the children were introduced to the Sun Safe message prior to carry out the activities.”

(Claire Thompson - Golftyn CP School)

Golf Stars help Skcin promote Sun Safety at UK Golf Clubs

Don’t ‘putt’ yourself at risk of sun damage, play it safe and protect your skin!
Skcin launch a new campaign to keep golfers sun safe.

Skcin has teamed up with the English Golf Union (EGU) and pharmaceutical company LEO Pharma, to raise awareness of skin cancer among the UK’s 3.4 million regular golfers.  Skin cancer is the most common and fastest rising cancer in the UKand those who spend time enjoying outdoor pursuits like golf are particularly at risk. Each round of golf can chalk up an extra five hours of sun exposure and many of us underestimate the risk of sun damage in this country. Spending even a short time in the sun can cause sunburn, especially if you have fair skin. Although sunburn settles down after a few days, repeated sun exposure builds up over the years into sun damaged skin which means that there is an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

Charlotte Fionda, Director of Skcin, said, “There are two different types of skin cancer, some are related to moles, but others are not. Both are linked to too much sun exposure and can be dangerous for your health.  Every year in the UK 112,000 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed, 10 per cent of these are caused by moles. Many of us think about being sun safe when we’re abroad but forget that UK sun strength can be deceptive. Our campaign highlights the simple steps we can all take to protect ourselves, especially when enjoying outdoor sports and leisure activities.”

From today, posters featuring top golfers and Skcin patrons Alison Nicholas MBE and Gary Wolstenhome MBE will arrive at every golf club nationwide. The posters are packed with top tips on keeping sun safe that include:

• Apply SPF30+ broad spectrum UVA sunscreen 30 minutes before teeing off, ensure good coverage on face, neck, ears and keep in your golf bag to reapply regularly.

• Wear protective clothing such as a hat to shade the face (preferably with a broad brim), consider wearing sunglasses and seek shade where possible. 

• Check the UV forecast, when levels are three or above, always use sun protection and remember UV can penetrate cloud cover. 

• Check your skin regularly to detect changes early. 

• Not all skin cancers are about changes to moles, get rough/scaly patches checked too as these may be a sign of increased risk.

Charlotte Fionda, Director of Skcin, added, “Rough patches of skin can be a sign of a skin condition called solar keratosis. It affects around one in ten of us aged 40 or over and this rises to one in four of us over 60.^{5, 6}Up to 65 per cent of a common skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, results from it^{7, 8}, but most of us haven’t heard of the condition. ⁹In its early stages it can often be easier to feel than see so it’s important to both look and FEEL for changes regularly. If you have concerns speak to your GP.”

Alison Nicholas MBE, Solheim cup captain/winner, said, “When I tour abroad in sunny destinations I am more sun aware but in the UK it’s easy to get into the mind-set that the sun isn’t as strong, especially when there is cloud cover. Your own attitude to the sun can be the main risk factor for skin damage.  I now know how important it is to be sun aware after losing a fellow golfer and friend to skin cancer.  Not wearing or reapplying sunscreen, teeing off mid-morning when the sun’s rays are at their strongest, and having little or no shade, if you stay on the fairways, are all factors that contribute to the dangers of skin cancer.”

Gary Wolstenhome MBE, three time European tour winner, said, “In the UK many sportsmen and women spend a lot of time outdoors and aren’t aware of the potential risk of sun exposure. Even with overcast skies, 30 – 40 per cent of UV will still penetrate through and figures show that if you work outside, like me, your risk of the skin cancer squamous cell carcinoma increases by almost 80 per cent.  So when you are heading out to the course, as well as remembering to check your golf gear, check you have packed a hat and applied your sunscreen.”  

Check out your local golf club for these posters to be sun safe

Mind Us Childcare Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Mind Us Childcare for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Mind Us Childcare

“I have three large trees that provide quite a bit of shade in the garden. I have a sun umberella over the sandtray and a large sandpit that is fully covered and shaded from the sun. The mud kitchen is also shaded from the sun. I have two play houses and a tent in the garden that provide shady places to play.”

(Emma Armitage - Mind Us Childcare)

BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY LTD Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY LTD for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY LTD has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“All parents have now received a copy of the letter and fact sheet informing them of this scheme. a copy of the fact sheet has also been put on our nursery notice board.

This fact sheet will now also form part of our induction pack. ”

(TINA HART - BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY LTD)

“We have a box of spare sun hats within the nursery and each room has a bottle of sun cream for nursery use. All staff act as role models and are asked to apply sun cream and wear a sun hat when outdoors with children. ”

(TINA HART - BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY LTD)

Heddington Preschool Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Heddington Preschool for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Heddington Preschool

“At preschool we have a shaded area where the children can play outside without being exposed to the sun all day.”

(Leanne Weston - Heddington Preschool)

Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Introductory Assembly Plan

Congratulations to Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School for carrying out an introductory assembly about how to keep safe in the sun:

Assembly photo submitted by Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School

“The assembly was well recieved. The parents are very supportive and in one of the lessons following up the assembly the teacher reported that all the children knew the sun safe messages.”

(Monica Paines - Lon GDitton Infant And Nursery School)

Bright Sparks Completes Step 1 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Sun Hats, Sunscreen & Role Models

Congratulations to Bright Sparks for issuing Sun Safety Fact Sheets to all their pupils. Bright Sparks has also pledged to keep sun hats and sunscreen available for all their children and to act as role models with regard to sun safety:

“Very usefull letter with lots of knowledgable and important information”

(Mandy Coath - Bright Sparks )

“We always have suncream and hats avalible through out the whole year”

(Mandy Coath - Bright Sparks )

Bright Sparks Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Bright Sparks for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Bright Sparks have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“George is now one of the favourite books here at brightsparks the children love him”

(Mandy Coath - Bright Sparks )

“i will regularly use these resources and we will sing the slip slop slapsong before we go out in the garden all the time”

(Mandy Coath - Bright Sparks )

St Michael's CE Primary School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Shade

Congratulations to St Michael's CE Primary School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by St Michael's CE Primary School

“We have worked hard to ensure there is plentiful shade in our playground which is south facing at the front of the school. We have a stage area which we shade in summer months, we have seating under a large tree in one corner of the playground and we have recently had shade sails built to add additional shade - funded by the parents.”

(Jo Holt - St Michael's CE Primary School)

Tiny Hands Day Nursery Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Tiny Hands Day Nursery for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Tiny Hands Day Nursery have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children sing the song before going outside at suncream time. The children have been very vocal with their parents telling them they need hats and cream and singing the song”

(Tracy Kennedy - Tiny Hands Day Nursery)

“Tiny Hands will use the resources throughout the year to reinforce the sun safe message”

(Tracy Kennedy - Tiny Hands Day Nursery)

Tiny Hands Day Nursery Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Tiny Hands Day Nursery for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Tiny Hands Day Nursery

“We have various trees in the garden that provide shade throughout the day. We have a covered bandstand and a house that can be covered when the sun is shining and uncovered when not.”

(Tracy Kennedy - Tiny Hands Day Nursery)

Tiny Toez @ Westfield Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Tiny Toez @ Westfield for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Tiny Toez @ Westfield

“The picture attached shows the shaded area that is permanently available for the children. We also have two canopies that goes up during the summer and hotter months that provide good shelter from the sun. The nursery has two pop up tents that also go outside to provide extra shelter from the sun which are used as cosy areas with cushions where children can relax from the sun and look at stories. ”

(Hayley Ferns - Tiny Toez @ Westfield)

Ashby Day Nursery Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Ashby Day Nursery for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Ashby Day Nursery have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children have really enjoyed learning about George the sun safe superstar and regularly recite the song before outdoor play. Each group room has a copy of the song displayed and their own copy of George the sun safe superstar.”

(Beccy Winfield - Ashby Day Nursery)

“All rooms have a sun safe pack including books and resources to use. We regularly remind the children of the importance of being sun safe and will continue to do so throughout the summer.”

(Beccy Winfield - Ashby Day Nursery)

Rainbow St Peters Pre-School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Shade

Congratulations to Rainbow St Peters Pre-School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Rainbow St Peters Pre-School

“I have attached a photo of our house. In addition to this, we also have 2 large parasols and a large lock up with an overhang on the roof that provides shade. ”

(Lisa Megson - Rainbow St Peters Pre-School)

Blundellsands Kindergarten Completes Step 3 towards becoming a Sun Safe Nursery - Teaching Resources & Activities

Congratulations to Blundellsands Kindergarten for reading George the Sun Safe Superstar to all their children and introducing everyone to the ‘Slip, Slap, Slop song’.Blundellsands Kindergarten have also pledged to continue to regularly use the resources provided to reinforce the sun safe message to their children.

“The children loves the slip, slop, slap song. They enjoyed the story and all wants to be a Sun Safe Superstar. The all know the rules by heart.”

(Ana Menis - Blundellsands Kindergarten)

“We have seen how well the sun safe message comes across using the slip/slop/slap initiative. We will keep this up and use this as a regular topic every spring/summer term.”

(Ana Menis - Blundellsands Kindergarten)

Golftyn CP School Completes Step 2 towards becoming a Sun Safe School - Shade

Congratulations to Golftyn CP School for providing shaded areas for their pupils.

Shaded Area photo submitted by Golftyn CP School

“At Golftyn CP School, we have many shaded areas around the school. We have three shade structures and two large trees within the school grounds which provide shaded areas for the pupils.”

(Claire Thompson - Golftyn CP School)