Why we ALL need to check our skin
Health and safety vigilance is built into every working day, whether on a building site, in a warehouse, driving a delivery route, or managing contractors. We inspect tools, audit processes, and run safety drills. But how often do we check our skin? Almost never.
Melanoma is now the 4th most common cancer in men in the UK, with over 22,000 people diagnosed annually. Anyone can develop skin cancer, but those working outdoors are at greater risk due to high UV exposure — and because awareness of melanoma and sun safety remains low. Most of this workforce are men, who are also less likely to check their skin regularly.
The good news: caught early, melanoma is treatable.
Campaign launch
This autumn, the Melanoma Fund launches If skin could talk with posters rolling out across UK building sites, warehouses, and distribution centres during October and November.
Dan Haywood, CEO of Prime Horizon, shares his story:
“I never imagined melanoma would happen to me, but it did — and it turned my world upside down. Skin cancer doesn’t care who you are or how strong you think you are. If this campaign helps even one colleague spot melanoma early and get treated, it will be worth it. We all need to know what melanoma is, how to spot it, and take five minutes a month to check our skin. It could save your life.”
For teams wanting to take a deeper dive, the Melanoma Fund also offers a short toolbox talk presentation, which can be delivered by HR/health & safety managers or by Michelle Baker, CEO of the Melanoma Fund, providing practical awareness and answering questions directly.
Why it matters
Tradespeople, warehouse staff, contractors, and drivers all work in tough environments where physical resilience is key, but your skin deserves the same attention. Taking just a few minutes each month could save your life.
Remember:
- Early detection saves lives
- Educate yourself on what to look out for
- Check your skin monthly
- If you spot something of concern, visit your GP immediately
Get involved
Throughout October and November, health and safety managers are encouraged to:
- Display the campaign posters in common staff areas
- Request the toolbox talk materials to educate teams
- Encourage monthly skin checks for all staff
- Share the message via internal communications or social media using our graphics #IfSkinCouldTalk and @MelanomaFund
You can access all these materials in our If Skin Could Talk toolkit [HERE].
For any further support or questions, email: info@melanoma-fund.co.uk
Donate:
Help us raise more awareness, reach more people and save more lives with this important campaign. Text MELANOMA to 70490 to donate £20 – and please select Gift Aid!*
*Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message, and you’ll be opting into hearing more from us. If you would like to donate but don’t wish to hear more from us, please text MELANOMANOINFO instead.
