Modelling agencies introduce no sunbed policy in anti-cancer scheme

Leading modelling agencies are introducing a no sunbed policy for their models as part of a health initiative orchestrated by Cancer Research UK.

Organisations such as Storm, Elite, Next, Premier Model Management, Models 1 and Oxygen have agreed to enforce a new rule that prevents anyone who uses a sunbed from representing their agency.

The announcement coincides with London Fashion Week and is part of Cancer Research UK's R UV UGLY? campaign, which aims to draw attention to the damage sunbeds can to skin, particularly among those aged below 35.

Research has shown that the risk of developing malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, rises by more than 50 percent among those using sunbeds once a month or more.

Sarah Doukas, managing director of Storm Model Management, said: "Supporting this campaign makes perfect sense, as the wellbeing of our models is of paramount importance and we take a serious approach to their health."

This comes after a survey by Cancer Research UK last month revealed that many people are using sunbeds on recommendation from friends and family members, despite the associated health risks.