SunSmart campaign strategy

ComputerSunSmart is an integrated public health campaign built around the following key elements:

Research

SunSmart is based on research. National tracking surveys monitor its impact and effectiveness. Qualitative and pre-test research drive its strategic direction and outputs.

Public communication

A high profile, intensive press and PR programme forms a major element of the campaign. This is supported by targeted distribution of public information resources.

Professional support

Support for and from professionals working at local level is key to the success of any national public health programme. Local professionals are encouraged to incorporate sun protection initiatives into their work to further extend the reach of the campaign.

Policy development

SunSmart is underpinned by the development of supportive public policy. Current projects include the development of national policies for sunbed usage and guidelines for sun protection in schools.

Campaign objectives

SunSmart would like to end the year-on-year rise in skin cancer incidence and mortality rates in the UK, and to close of the gap between male and female survival rates.

Through continuing our national programme of work, and supporting local work, we aim to achieve changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour:

  • Maintain awareness of UV as a major cause of skin cancer and increase knowledge of the individual risk factors associated with skin cancer
  • Increase knowledge and understanding of effective methods to prevent sunburn
  • Promote positive attitudes towards protection from overexposure to UV
  • Increase the number of people who use their knowledge of their skin type to guide their behaviour and reduce their skin cancer risk
  • Increase knowledge of the key signs of skin cancer and the benefits associated with diagnosing skin cancer early
  • Promote positive attitudes towards spotting skin cancer early and visiting the doctor with any concern