Jersey children to learn more about sun safety

Credit: PA

Primary school children in Jersey are set to learn more about how to play safely in the sun.

It's part of an initiative being organised by the Donna Annand Melanoma Charity.

The charity has secured the support of The Channel Islands Co-operative Society to deliver its 'Play Safe in the Sun' training to primary schools in the island.

Mascot 'Alan the Mole' will kick off the campaign at St Peters Primary School today.

As part of the training, all children will be provided with UV bands. These will help enhance their awareness of the sun and reminds them when to apply sun screen, even on a cloudy day.

The Co-operative will also deliver the training at Les Landes Primary School on 14th June 2017.

  • What is malignant melanoma?

Malignant Melanoma is a form of skin cancer, which affects the pigment producing cells (Malanocytes) and often appears as new or changing mole.

There are three major signs of malignant melanoma all of which relate to changes in character, size, shape and colour.

Melanoma is one of the most common forms of cancer in young adults aged 25-29 years of age.

  • The Donna Annand Melanoma Charity

The Charity was formed in June 2011 to highlight the dangers of malignant melanoma and to raise awareness of the disease following the tragic death of Donna Annand (nee Le Saint).

Donna had everything to live for when she died aged just 29. Donna died from Melanoma cancer in 2011 and it was Donna's wish for people to be aware of the dangers of melanoma and understand that early detention of the disease is vital.

The charity is to assist in the prevention of; protect against; and promote the early detection of melanoma in Jersey so that such tragedies may be prevented in the future.