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Free sun cream for schools call

The cancer charity Tenovus has called for schools to be given free sun tan lotion for children.

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Children at high risk from sunburn

Tenovus wants sun tan lotion to be provided at school Credit: ITV News Wales

Tenovus says skin cancer diagnoses have more than doubled in the last ten years, and children are especially at risk. One blistering sunburn in childhood more than doubles the chances of developing skin cancer later in life, according to the charity.

AMs to discuss calls for free sun tan lotion for schools

Assembly Members are to discuss calls from the cancer charity Tenovus to provide free sun cream for children at schools. It follows several cases when parents have been told that children will not be allowed to take sun tan lotion into school.

The Children and Young People Committee will hear evidence from teaching unions as well as cancer charities. They will look at whether current policies and guidelines for schools with regards to sun protection are effective.

A petition with more than 9,000 signatories was handed into the Senedd earlier this month. Teaching union, NAHT say that clearer guidelines are needed for schools and teachers.

"There is plenty of research telling us that exposure to UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer. So we will also look at whether there is sufficient awareness in schools of the current sun protection policies and guidelines in Wales, and, if not, how best to raise awareness.

– Christine Chapman AM, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee

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