A new campaign from the Melanoma Fund — If skin could talk — urges outdoor workers to check their skin for early signs of melanoma, one of the UK’s fastest-rising cancers.
Presenting “a simple, urgent message,” the campaign highlights how melanoma is often visible to the naked eye, yet too many people don’t know what to look for — or don’t check at all. If skin could talk uses bold poster visuals, with tattooed skin “speaking” directly to its owner to deliver a clear warning: get to know your skin, check it monthly, and if you spot something unusual, see your GP.
Posters, QR codes and toolbox talks
Targeting construction, warehouse and logistics staff, and working with as many builders’ merchants as possible, the campaign calls on businesses to display eye-catching posters in staff areas and around the branch. Each poster features a QR code linking to practical guidance on how, when, and where to check skin, and why it matters.
To support deeper awareness, the initiative also offers a toolbox talk presentation for HR and health & safety teams, backed by social media graphics to extend the message online.
Why it matters
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.”
Michelle Baker, CEO of the Melanoma Fund, added: “Melanoma is now the fourth most common cancer in men in the UK, with around 22,000 cases every year. But caught early, most cases can be treated successfully.
“This campaign reaches those most at risk in a direct and practical way, making it impossible to ignore the signs. If skin could talk, it would be telling us to pay attention, and our campaign gives people the tools to listen. Education, early detection and action save lives.”
Get involved
Throughout October and November, the Melanoma Fund is urging employers, health & safety teams and operations managers to:
Display the campaign posters in staff areas
Use the toolbox talk materials to educate teams
Encourage monthly skin checks
Share the message via internal communications and social media
For more information and to access the campaign’s free-to-download resources, visit: melanoma-fund.co.uk/ifskincouldtalk
