Liverpool Council signs skin cancer pledge

Liverpool City Council and Cancer Research UK have combined efforts to increase awareness of skin cancer and ensure the disease is firmly on the local authority’s health agenda.

The news comes as official data has shown the number of people being diagnosed with malignant melanoma in Liverpool each year has increased from 45 to 90, since 2001.

The new pledge will mean encouraging local businesses and schools to create shaded areas by planting more trees and installing canopies. The council will also work with tanning salons to prevent under 18s from using sunbeds as part of Cancer Research UK’s Own Your Tone campaign to promote natural skin colours.

Paul Brant, Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “Liverpool is delighted to be working alongside Cancer Research on this critical issue. Liverpool City Council is committed to tackling skin cancer. Signing Cancer Research UK’s pledge is a further demonstration of our continued determination to do all we can to help prevent residents getting skin cancer.

“We are proud to be the first local authority to sign up and I hope many other councils will follow Liverpool’s example.”

Ruth Stafferton, a Liverpool-based Cancer Research UK nurse added: “Skin cancer can be deadly. But the vast majority of skin cancers are preventable and are primarily caused by over exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and sunbeds.

“We all need some sun for healthy bones, but when the sun is strong it’s important to look after your skin. Spend time in the shade, cover up with clothing and also use plenty of suncream with at least SPF15 and four or more stars.

“We are delighted to be working so closely with Liverpool City Council and that they are the very first council in the country to sign the skin cancer pledge. Hopefully their commitment will lead the way for other councils to get on board and tackle the disease.”