Dear SunSmart Schools and families,

Being outdoors in Victoria means we’re exposed to some of the harshest and most dangerous levels of ultraviolet radiation (UV) in the world.

But while UV is a part of life, skin cancer doesn’t have to be.

With support from the Victorian Department of Health, SunSmart Victoria is launching a new skin cancer prevention campaign ‘Don’t Let Cancer In’ to raise the awareness of the serious consequence of skin cancer and increase sun protection behaviours among Victorian men and women. This includes for priority population groups including men who are twice as likely to die from melanoma compared to women as well as those in regional areas who are 44% more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma compared to those living in major cities.

The campaign will highlight that repeated exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can lead to skin cancer including the deadliest form, melanoma which can spread from your skin to vital organs. This exposure can be from everyday activities such as walking the dog and gardening or watching the kids in the backyard and reiterate the important message when you go out don’t let cancer in. To increase sun protection behaviours, we will be reminding everyone to check the UV level before they leave the house and if it is 3 or above, to cover up.

We all want Victorians to enjoy being outdoors with friends and family in our beautiful state but be protected against harmful UV radiation which can occur in everyday activities like going for a walk or gardening.

The campaign will run across paid, owned and earned channels in Victoria from November 2023 to February 2024. Visit our campaign website here.

Promote sun protection behaviours

Kind regards, Nicky MuirSunSmart Schools and Early Childhood Lead, Cancer Council Victoria

Kids Helpline

Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free (even from a mobile), confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.

If you need to speak to a counsellor, call 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Qualified counsellors at Kids Helpline are available via WebChat and phone anytime and for any reason.

https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling/

Since 1991, Australia’s kids and young people have been turning to our professional, specialised counsellors, no matter who they are, where they live or what they want to talk about.

Over this time, we have responded to over 8.5 million contacts. For some young people, connecting with Kids Helpline has been a life-saving experience, while for others it’s about practical help and emotional support at the critical moment they need someone to listen.

Mental Health Support for Children

We have been alerted to availability for the following psychology clinics in our network, if you are requiring ongoing mental health support, or neurodevelopmental assessment:

InPsync Psychology, Coburg

Everyday Psychology, Carlton North (14 yo+)

Northside Psychology, Thornbury

Mind that Matters, Carlton & Caufield South (offer neurodevelopmental and educational assessments)

Beyond the Gates