Two of New Zealand’s most well-known and trusted organisations, Cancer Society of New Zealand and Hato Hone St John are partnering to protect New Zealanders from sun-related harm at events this summer.
The New Zealand charities are joining forces to implement a range of initiatives aimed at minimizing the impact of over exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV).
Eventgoers can find co-branded Sun Squirt dispensers at some major events that Hato Hone St John supports this summer.
New Zealand has high UV levels, especially in the summer. Instances of sunburn in New Zealand are high: in a study conducted by Te Hiringa Hauora (2016) it was found that one in seven adults and one in six teenagers has been sunburnt in the previous weekend. By being SunSmart, we can all reduce our risk of sun-related harm.
The automated dispensers will distribute free Cancer Society sunscreen, ensuring those attending the outdoor events will have a layer of protection against the sun’s rays.
The dispensers are a great step in helping to prevent sun-related harm, which both organisations see too often.
While pleased to be able to provide free sunscreen at these events, both organisations also encourage people to plan their SunSmart approach before heading to events. That means remembering to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap.
With ongoing initiatives such as the dispensers that arise from the Hato Hone St John and the Cancer Society partnership, the aim is to reduce the effects sun exposure can have on New Zealanders such as skin cancers.
Lucy Elwood, Chief Executive from Cancer Society says, “more can be achieved by working together”.
“We are extremely proud to be partnering with Hato Hone St John New Zealand. We believe this close collaboration provides a fantastic opportunity to enhance the work Cancer Society of New Zealand are currently doing through its advocacy and educational channels with SunSmart by increasing the awareness of SunSmart messaging and decreasing the incidence of sun-related harm at events across New Zealand.”
“We have already increased access to sunscreen products in our Event Health Services Team and will further look to launch a number of initiatives to reduce sun-related harm as we enter a sizzling NZ summer,” which Head of Event Health Services, Debra Larsen, says “is essential for the organisation”.
“St John is thrilled to be partnering with Cancer Society to reduce sun-related harm at events in Aotearoa New Zealand. A considerable percentage of minor incidents St John treats at events are sunburn related. This collaboration between St John and Cancer Society presents an opportunity to communicate to kiwis attending event of all sizes across New Zealand about SunSmart messaging and provide better access to Cancer Society sunscreen.
We appreciate the support of the Cancer Society, which will enable Hato Hone St John to go further in reducing sun related harm in communities across Aotearoa.”
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More information about Cancer Society and the SunSmart messaging can be found at www.sunsmart.org.nz
More information about how St John has been serving the people of New Zealand since 1885 can be found at www.stjohn.org.nz