AS THE sun gets stronger in the northern hemisphere and spring starts to move into summer, health professionals are raising awareness about the need to take care of your skin.

Today (May 4) is the start of Sun Awareness Week and Worcestershire Macmillan Skin Cancer Nurse Specialist (CNS) Charlotte Gray is supporting this initiative and encouraging residents across the county to stay safe in the sun and be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer.

Also from May 6 an information stand about sun awareness and skin cancer will be in the foyer of the Worcestershire Royal Hospital with leaflets and sun screen samples.

Charlotte joined the dermatology team in 2009 as Worcestershire’s first skin CNS and works across the three main hospital sites – Worcester, Redditch and Kidderminster - providing expert care and support for skin cancer patients.

She acts as their main point of contact ensuring their care is co-ordinated and provides support with the physical and emotional impact of their diagnosis.

Skin cancer is one of the most common and fastest increasing types of cancer in the uk so it is vital to check your skin and be aware of what to look out for and it is also helpful to keep an eye on each other’s skin.

Charlotte says: “Every couple of months I recommend doing a top-to-toe skin check. If you notice a mole that has changed in size, shape or colour - often they will stand out as being different to any others on your skin - or have a persistent non-healing ulcer, lump or sore you should seek the advice of your GP. It may not be skin cancer but it is always best to be sure.”

Charlotte adds: “Macmillan represents such a lot these days. To be a Macmillan professional is both a responsibility and a privilege. It is a title that I carry with great pride.

“A big part of my role is about being there to listen to patient’s worries and concerns and also to signpost them on to additional local support. The Macmillan Cancer Information Centres at each of the three main hospital sites are a hugely valuable resource and I regularly refer to the Worcestershire Macmillan CAB caseworkers. I also link with the Community Macmillan nurses.

“These are exciting times, the opening of the new Worcestershire Oncology Centre with a radiotherapy service in the county are really positive developments that will benefit some of those diagnosed with skin cancer.”

If you’re facing cancer it’s important to know support is there and answers to questions. For more information about cancer, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call 0808 808 00 00.