Advocacy support

We need champions like you

We need passionate people in schools and the community to advocate for sun protection. Advocacy efforts raise awareness about the dangers of UV radiation and the importance of sun protection.

This can lead to better community practices, such as providing shaded areas in playgrounds and schools.

By advocating for sun protection, we can ensure that children enjoy the outdoors safely and develop habits that protect their health for years to come.

Leading by example through your own behaviors is also very effective and important.

Why is advocacy important? 

1. Advocacy creates action

When people speak out about issues that are important to them, they can help bring awareness to an issue to create action or make an important change in the community. Preventing skin cancer is an issue you can help do something about.

2. Advocacy brings people together

Advocacy is often done by bringing people together around an issue or challenge.

3. Advocacy can help change minds and hearts

It helps to educate others so there's share responsibility, and leaders and influencers can make informed decisions.

Top tips for advocating

1. Be clear about the facts
2. Make connections with other who care about the issue
3. Get buy in from leaders and influencers

Please contact us if you would like us to provide a letter of support with other sun protection efforts.

Advocacy resources

Shade

Have a look through our shade advocacy toolkit to advocate for shade in school and play settings. It is packed full of great ideas and is designed to assist you in taking actionable steps. It includes a wealth of resources to support your advocacy journey.

Advocating for shade is one of the best things we can do to protect our children and others in our community from the harmful effects of UV and the risk of skin cancers. There are also many other benefits of shade, which you can read about in this toolkit.

Hats

As your school or service champion, explore our Hat-Wearing Champion Guide and Toolkit. These resources are designed to work together seamlessly, making them perfect for promoting better hat-wearing habits and enhancing sun safety at your school or service. Use these tools to cultivate a proud SunSmart culture within your community.