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Navigating the Manchester Business Landscape: Essential Financial Tips for Entrepreneurs

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As an entrepreneur in Manchester, you are part of a vibrant and thriving business community. To ensure long-term success and financial security, it is crucial to navigate the city’s business landscape with sound financial strategies. In this article, we will explore essential financial tips specifically tailored for entrepreneurs in Manchester.

Building a Solid Financial Foundation

Establishing a strong financial foundation is vital for any entrepreneur. Start by separating personal and business finances, maintaining accurate accounting records, and developing a robust budgeting system. Utilize professional accounting software to track income, expenses, and cash flow effectively. Additionally, consider seeking guidance from financial advisors who specialize in working with entrepreneurs in Manchester to ensure compliance with local tax regulations.

Managing Cash Flow Effectively

Cash flow management is crucial for the survival and growth of your business. In Manchester’s competitive business landscape, it’s important to maintain a healthy cash flow. Create realistic cash flow projections, monitor receivables, and negotiate favourable payment terms with suppliers. Implementing efficient invoicing and collection processes can help optimize your cash flow. Explore options for short-term financing, such as business overdrafts or lines of credit, to manage temporary cash flow gaps.

Smart Investment Strategies

Manchester offers a range of investment opportunities for entrepreneurs. Consider diversifying your investment portfolio by exploring local ventures or start-ups. Research Manchester’s thriving industries, such as technology, creative arts, and sustainable energy, to identify potential investment prospects. However, be sure to conduct thorough due diligence and seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.

Retirement Planning: ISA or SIPP

One crucial aspect of financial planning for entrepreneurs is retirement preparation. Choosing between an Individual Savings Account (ISA) or a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) depends on your individual circumstances and retirement goals. An ISA offers tax-free growth on investments, and withdrawals are also tax-free. It provides more flexibility in terms of accessing funds but does not offer tax relief on contributions. On the other hand, a SIPP allows for tax relief on contributions but restricts access until retirement age. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to evaluate the ISA or SIPP retirement option that aligns better with your retirement objectives and risk tolerance.

Leveraging Business Support Services in Manchester

Manchester offers a variety of business support services that can assist entrepreneurs in their financial journey. Take advantage of initiatives such as business mentoring programs, networking events, and grants or funding opportunities offered by local organizations and governmental bodies. Engage with business support agencies and attend workshops or seminars to gain valuable insights and build connections within the Manchester business community.

As an entrepreneur in Manchester, managing your finances effectively is key to long-term success. By implementing solid financial foundations, managing cash flow, exploring investment opportunities, and making informed choices regarding retirement planning, you can navigate the Manchester business landscape with confidence and secure a prosperous future for your business and personal financial well-being.

Luna Investment Management continues impressive growth

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Luna Investment Management (Luna IM), a specialist investment management firm, announced on May 31st an increase in turnover of 58% for the financial year ending March 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. Funds under management increased by 24% and headcount rose by 27% in the same period. The growth helped Luna IM maintain its position as the North West’s largest independent discretionary fund manager.

Despite the market conditions seeing falls across all major investment markets, Luna IM has increased funds under management by a notable 24% year-on-year. Clients are attracted to Luna IM because of its commitment to its core discipline; to provide clients with an flexible and proactive investment management strategy which is underpinned by personal service.

Luna IM continued to attract top industry talent to support its growth with the notable addition of Peter Stiles who previously worked at Brown Shipley, Manchester for 37 years. Luna IM also continues to invest for the future with Daniel Froggatt joining, having graduated from The University of Newcastle with a degree in Economics and Politics.

In November 2022, Luna IM signed a long-term contract with Third Financialand their award winning investment management software platform. The use of a single platform for custody and execution harnesses technological change to reduce the admin burden and enables the Luna IM investment team to focus on strategy.

James Carter, Director of Luna Investment Management said, “With Investment market conditions proving to be a challenge across the board in 2022, it has never been more important to have a proactive service with direct and personal access to your wealth manager and advisors. Our growth is as a direct result of the service we provide, our focus on our core discipline and the experience of our team. We look forward to further building on this success going forward.”

Luna Investment Management, which is located in Spinningfields in Manchester, provides bespoke investment solutions to a range of clients throughout the UK. Through agreements with providers and advisers, these tailored investment services are available within personal and corporate accounts, charitable foundations, trusts, pensions and offshore bond structures.

For more information, visit www.lunaim.com.

Re-brand and multi-million investment for Kensite

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Kensite, an Atherton-based provider of site accommodation and on-site services has announced the successful completion of its business rebranding. The company’s new branding reflects a more modern and dynamic style, aligning with its future plans and ambitions.

Originally a hire business supplying portable cabins and toilets, Kensite is now transitioning into a comprehensive “Complete Site Solutions” provider, offering customers an expanded range of products and services.

Kensite’s rebranding includes a K-shaped logo representing a site setup, which has been implemented across the company’s premises, vehicles, workwear, and fleet products, creating a fresher and more modern image.

Over the past three years, Kensite has made substantial investments across various areas. More diverse products including Eco Anti Vandal and Welfare Units, Solar Loos, Solar Shelters, and Solar Charging Station have been added to the Kensite fleet and overall, the investment to date has been around £6 million.

“There was a misconception that Kensite solely served the Greater Manchester and Northwest England regions,” said Campbell Rodden, Managing Director of Kensite Services. “Our recent investments have enabled us to broaden our offerings and enhance our services.”

Kensite invites both existing and prospective customers to visit its Atherton headquarters. This is an opportunity to meet the experienced team and explore the extensive range of products and services that Kensite has to offer.

One satisfied customer recently expressed their satisfaction, stating, “We have had a longstanding relationship with Kensite Services. Their hard work, honesty, and can-do attitude mean they always go the extra mile to supply our requirements for site accommodation and other on-site services. This makes them a perfect partner for our business.”

Kensite’s five-year plan also identifies growth opportunities in serving additional regions of the country and expanding into related services.

“The plan now is to significantly grow the business over the next five years by adding other complementary products and services. And many clients prefer to deal with a single source of supply: we’ve been very successful recently in winning new customers on that basis,” said Campbell.

By proactively engaging customers and offering a broader range of solutions, Kensite Services aims to exceed customer expectations and continue its growth trajectory.

K2L launches fan ownership initiative for Salford Red Devils

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Salford-based digital marketing agency K2L has helped to successfully launch local Rugby League club, Salford Red Devils’ new fan ownership initiative, ‘Reds Rise Together’. Its aim is to bring fans, businesses, and the wider community together to purchase shares in the club and help them rise to new heights.

The first-in-it’s-history initiative, allows supporters to become owners, entitling them to a whole host of benefits, including a vote and the eligibility to stand for club election, in addition to exclusive offers.

Working alongside the Reds, K2L helped to create the ‘Reds Rise Together’ concept and initiated activation and launch activities, including creative assets, marketing collateral, photography and social media direction.

The first milestone was to raise £250,000 and in just a few weeks over 700 businesses and fans have already pledged over £190,000 in support of their club.

Having worked with K2L on a number of projects over the years, Paul King, Managing Director of the Salford Red Devils explains, “We’re really enjoying collaborating with K2L. The campaign has had a real positive start, their knowledge of the local community and their expertise in fan engagement is invaluable in helping us to raise the profile of the initiative.”

“As a lifelong Reds fan and an agency partner for some years, to be a part of this historic initiative is great,” said Scott Kennedy, Strategic Director of K2L. “We’re passionate about all things Salford, the Reds, and building community spirit so this partnership is perfectly aligned for us.”

You can find out more about the Reds Rise Together campaign here or donate to their Crowdfunder page here.

Rochdale’s Collaborative Approach to Health Showcased at European Conference

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Health leaders from Rochdale have presented the successful outcomes of collaborative working in Greater Manchester to a conference attended by over 1,000 delegates in Belgium.

Dr Salman Shahid, Associate Medical Director of the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board, along with a team from One Rochdale Health and Care, demonstrated how they have integrated health and social care services to enhance the well-being of individuals in the borough and the wider Greater Manchester region at the International Conference on Integrated Care in Antwerp.

During the conference, Dr Kirsty Marshall, Dr Shona McCallum, and Alison Kelly highlighted their initiatives aimed at increasing patient and public involvement in health and social care services within the region.

Dr Shahid, accompanied by colleagues Sandra Crossdale and Andrew Hulcoop, took to the stage to discuss the “Integration Continuum” and share insights with the conference attendees.

“Our participation in this conference was driven by the desire to learn and exchange experiences regarding the challenges faced by modern healthcare systems,” said Dr Shahid. “We were able to showcase how hospitals, community services, GP practices, voluntary organizations, and educational and research teams are working collaboratively. This collaborative approach enables us to provide patient-centred care within an integrated healthcare model.”

He further added, “The conference provided an excellent opportunity for us to learn from colleagues across Europe and further improve our approaches and systems, aiming to create an even better health and social care system for our residents.”

Rochdale is one of the ten areas in Greater Manchester with significant health and care inequalities. Dr Shahid emphasized that addressing these challenges requires a multidisciplinary approach and recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders, including the voluntary, research, and education sectors. By integrating various elements, a seamless health and well-being model can be achieved, promoting better patient care.

One Rochdale Health and Care is a part of the larger Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, which includes Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust (SRFT) and The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust (PAT). The group provides healthcare services to over one million people across Salford, Oldham, Rochdale, and Bury, while also delivering specialized services to patients from Greater Manchester and beyond.

Why Veterans Should Consider Academy of Art University

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When it comes to veterans and military personnel, all are welcome in the Academy’s creative environment. In fact, veterans often find the variety of benefits and services available to them to be a differentiator when it comes to choosing where and how to pursue their higher education in the arts.

At Academy of Art University, leadership and faculty firmly believe anyone can pursue a career in the arts, no matter their walk of life, background, or prior experience. From inclusive admissions to generous programs designed for student success, Academy of Art University helps veterans cultivate the skills they need to be productive in real-world work situations after they leave active service and beyond.

A benefit for qualifying veterans is the military scholarship opportunities available through Academy of Art University. Designed for transitioning service members, and their families  tuition assistance can be made available for first-time students who meet specific enrollment criteria as full-time scholars. The Academy has academic advisers available to walk prospective students through all the benefits available to them through open military tuition assistance and the Veterans G.I. Bill.

No matter what area of the arts a veteran is interested in pursuing, they’ll find the support they need for success at Academy of Art University. With programs designed for a slate of artistic pursuits, the Academy can cater to motivated veterans looking for careers in more than just the creative arts. From architecture to fashion and game development, there’s a program to meet any artistic interest.

Academy of Art University is authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certify enrolled students under several programs and G.I. Bill benefits including Chapter 30, Chapter 31, and Chapter 33. In addition, the Academy accepts transcripts for military service credit from all branches of the armed forces, guiding applicants through the process of submitting the correct documents to receive credit. Academy of Art University also participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, which helps pay for tuition and eligible fees exceeding maximums under Chapter 33.

With an entire team dedicated to veterans’ affairs at Academy of Art University, students are able to pursue their academic goals with support and services designed just for them. Located in the Veterans Resource Center run by Crystal Beaumont, the Academy’s veteran’s student support efforts start at the beginning of every semester with both an online and onsite Veteran’s Resource Day where students are acquainted with the services available to them.

Veterans benefits and programs extend beyond the application and tuition process. The Veteran’s Center opened in 2018 has provided thousands of students with a place to socialize where they can share their experiences both at the school and in life, help each other with common issues, and collaborate on class work. It also provides veteran students with connections to housing along with mental and physical health assistance through the VA. The center is authorized to issue students their VA card so they can access this care.

The center is located in the main administration building and is staffed by veteran work- study students along with Beaumont. It is equipped with computers, study spaces, a pool table, and other creative spaces and resources.

“Our Veteran Center services not only aid our on-campus students,” says Beaumont, “but also our online Veterans students by connecting them with vendors and employers across the country through an extensive web of connections I have built.”

Recently to enhance its internship and job placement efforts for veterans who graduate from its programs the Academy has partnered with OneVet OneVoice lead by Courtney Ellington. “We created a job placement program to help veterans in schools so that they can continue to have that relationship with [vocational rehabilitation], after they graduate,” said Ellington. OneVet OneVoice works with local and national entrepreneurs who are creating jobs for veterans and their families to connect them with the Academy’s students and alumni. The OneVet OneVoice work-study program is another road for students to take that gives them a leg up when they graduate. By gaining work experience in creative fields while still a student, veterans have the ability to acquire real-world experience and add work to their portfolio that reflects their expertise.

For more information about the benefits, programs, and support available to veterans at Academy of Art University, visit https://www.academyart.edu/admissions/military-veterans-benefits/.

Tagir Sitdekov: Career path and professional activity of the head of AFK Sistema

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The executive took over the leadership of a major investment company in 2022. Prior to this appointment, he had extensive experience in portfolio asset management, including as the managing partner of the financial corporation.

Sitdekov Tagir Alievich: Early life and education

Tagir Sitdekov was born in 1976. He graduated from the Plekhanov Academy of Economics, which was founded in 1901 as a men’s business school. Over time, it became and remains one of the country’s leading centers for economic studies.

The Tagir Sitdekov biography has always centered on business, thus he also holds another specialized degree in this field. In 2012, he completed an EMBA training program designed to develop senior managers for large companies and business owners.

Sitdekov Tagir Alievich began his career as an audit consultant at PwC, one of the largest consulting holdings in the world. The experience of working in an international organization with an annual gross revenue exceeding $50 billion contributed to the formation of the future manager’s professional qualities.

Sitdekov Tagir: Investment career

Tagir Sitdekov then began working as a senior consultant for a division of a major European bank that actively invested in foreign enterprises. The economist began working there in 2001 and remained for two years.

The Tagir Sitdekov biography moved to a new job again when he was approved as the new financial director of the Sochi TPP in 2003. The manager remained with the company for almost two years, during which time it was still getting up and running. The installation of the first power units, with a total capacity of 78 MW, was then underway. They started generating electricity at the end of 2004.

Sitdekov Tagir Alievich left the energy company in 2005, and over the next 15 years, he developed his managerial competencies, working in a number of companies operating in the field of investments.

Tagir Sitdekov: Strengthening the biotech industry, pharmaceutical business, and private medicine

The Tagir Sitdekov biography entered a new stage when he was invited to one of the leading investment companies in the country in 2021. Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema became the managing partner of the corporation. The financial business had begun in 1993 with investments in various socially significant industries. As the managing partner, Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema supervised the development of the assets entrusted to him, including appointing the management of the corporation’s healthcare subsidiaries. He took on considerable responsibilities, including the search for new investment opportunities and strategic partners.

Tagir Alievich Sitdekov set about increasing the shareholder value of the portfolio companies under his management in his new position. Thus, he contributed to the development of the federal Medsi network, one of the corporation’s key assets in the healthcare market, and today, the company includes 134 medical centers that receive about 9.5 million people annually.

Sitdekov Tagir believes that private medicine has already proven itself as a full-fledged player in the national healthcare system, which was especially evident during the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. As Tagir Sitdekov announced, one Medsi hospital was transformed in just a week into a specialized infectious diseases hospital, for which 400 medical personnel were quickly trained in COVID-19 treatment protocols. In the end, thousands of patients received qualified care at the medical center.

Sitdekov Tagir actively contributed to the strengthening of Medsi’s market position. For example, in 2021-2022, the company acquired about 50 clinics throughout the country and opened new medical facilities of its own. Sitdekov Tagir Alievich believes that Medsi’s branches and the network as a whole are in no way inferior to the best state-run clinics, and even exceed national standards in some aspects. The network’s effectiveness is also evident from its financial results – by the end of 2022, the company had brought in 36 billion rubles.

Sitdekov Tagir Alievich also supervised the formation of the Binnopharm Group pharmaceutical holding during his time as the managing partner. The group was established in 2020 as a combination of various core assets of the investment corporation, and the process of consolidating the various enterprises was completed in 2021. The holding includes five modern plants. According to Sitdekov Tagir, the company recently managed to significantly strengthen its market position and is now among the top 10 largest competitors. Binnopharm Group plans to bring about 100 new drugs to the market by 2025, which will be sold both locally and abroad.

Tagir Sitdekov believes that the development of healthcare and pharmaceuticals is of great social importance for the future of the country. Therefore, Sistema invests both in the production of traditional drugs and in the biotech industry, including with its own company, Sistema-Biotech. Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema heads up the company’s board of directors, and under him, Sistema seeks to expand this area of business and occupy promising niches in the high-tech industry. Sistema-Biotech specialists have already created nine innovative products and released several million test systems designed for the early diagnosis of serious diseases.

Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema: President of the financial corporation

Tagir Sitdekov established himself as an effective leader during his time as the managing partner, and in July 2022, the Tagir Sitdekov biography entered a new stage with his appointment as the president of Sistema. Having become the head of the investment company, he stated that he intends to continue working to increase the shareholder value of the business’ assets. The corporation has one of the best management teams in the country, Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema believes, and its portfolio includes a number of assets from socially significant sectors of the local economy, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

The Tagir Sitdekov biography has always included support for responsible business throughout his career in big-business management. Thus, he helped to author the corporation’s ESG strategy, which was first presented to the public in the fall of 2022. Under the leadership of Tagir Sitdekov AFK Sistema is actively introducing ESG principles into the work of a number of its portfolio enterprises. The agroholding Steppe is among those that has adopted a sustainable development policy. As Sitdekov Tagir has noted, its key elements are economic growth and good working conditions.

Today, Steppe is not only one of the largest agro-industrial companies in the south of the country, but also the leader in the digital transformation of the domestic agro-industrial complex. Over one million tons of wheat and hundreds of thousands of tons of other agricultural products are grown annually in the company’s fields, while modern technologies help increase economic efficiency and reduce the impact on the environment. The agroholding strives to improve the ecological situation wherever it operates, including through forest plantations. In 2023, the company planted about 250 acres of forest in the Rostov Region, mostly consisting of green “shelter belts,” which help prevent soil erosion and reduce dust storms in the steppe region.

Sitdekov Tagir also considers it important to attract young people to advanced industries. The companies belonging to Sistema, together with the Sistema Charitable Foundation, which handles the company’s social initiatives, organized internships for more than 5,000 students in 2022, giving young people the chance to gain real work experience, including in high-tech fields. In 2023, the charitable foundation teamed up with the Ministry of Science and Higher Education to hold a grant competition to find promising career center programs for future professionals. The corporation will provide not only financial support to the most progressive projects, but also information about career opportunities in Sistema companies and direct access to internships.

Here’s Erik Bazinyan vs. Jose de Jesus Macias Live Stream Boxing From UK

ChrisEvans
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On Thursday, June 1, 2023, Erik Bazinyan will face Jose De Jesus Macias at Montreal Casino in Montreal.

Ten rounds will be fought at a maximum weight of 168 pounds (12 stone or 76.2 KG) according to the Super Middleweight division.

On the undercard, Claggett and Machado will fight it out.

Here you will discover comprehensive details on the contest.

  • Start Time: Thursday, 9 p.m. ET, June 1, 2023
  • Venue: Montreal Casino, Montreal, Canada
  • Broadcast: ESPN+
  • Stream: FitePass
  • Weight: 168 lbs (76.2 kg)
  • Title on Line: NABF, NABA Super Middleweight Title

Bazinyan, a former amateur star from Armenia, is now 28 years old and currently resides and trains in Montreal. Although he has a high ranking (second by three of the four major sanctioning organizations) and has defeated many formidable opponents, he has never fought for a major title. He had victories over the strong Marcelo Coceres in June and the talented Alantez Fox in February.

It’s possible that Macias isn’t as formidable as other foes. The 31-year-old Mexican boxer has fought the likes of Erickson Lubin and Giovani Santillan, both of whom he defeated. When he played Pavel Silyagin in July of last year, he was unfortunately defeated.

How to stream from the UK

The opening round of the main card is scheduled to begin at 12 a.m. BST in the UK. Viewers from the UK can stream the tournament if they have access to DAZN. If you have trouble streaming DAZN, or if it gets much expensive, there’s an alternative platform for you.

You can subscribe to FitePass with a very low cost and enjoy a trouble-free streaming no matter wherever you are.

Bazinyan vs macias: Records and backgrounds

 

Erik bazinyan

 

  • Nationality: Canadian
  • Age: 28
  • Height: 6′ 1″ / 185 cm
  • Reach: 72.8″ / 185 cm
  • Stance: Orthodox
  • Wins: 29 (21 by KO)
  • Debut: 2013
  • Pro Rounds: 140

 

Jose de Jesus macias

 

  • Nationality: Mexican
  • Age: 31
  • Height: 5′ 9″ / 175 cm
  • Reach: 72.4″ / 184 cm
  • Stance: Orthodox
  • Wins: 28 (14 by KO)
  • Debut: 2011
  • Pro Rounds: 257

Bazinyan Vs Macias: Beginning and Broadcast

Armenian-born Bazinyan, now 28, lives and trains in Canada’s provincial capital of Quebec. The fact that he has never competed for a major title despite his high rating (second by three of the four major sanctioning organizations) and many victories against dangerous opponents is surprising. In June he beat the formidable Marcelo Coceres, and in February he beat the gifted Alantez Fox.

Macias might not be as dangerous as some of your other opponents. The Mexican fighter, who is now 31 years old, has beaten the likes of Erickson Lubin and Giovani Santillan. He lost a match against Pavel Silyagin in July of last year.

HotPMO Welcomes New Director of Customer Strategy, Jordan Watson, and Launches New Subscription Service

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HotPMO Ltd, a leading consultancy firm specializing in Project Management Offices (PMOs), has recently expanded its leadership team with the appointment of Jordan Watson as the Director of Customer Strategy. This strategic move highlights HotPMO’s commitment to aligning its services with the evolving needs of its customers.

Jordan Watson brings a wealth of experience in customer relationship management, having previously worked at Gartner and Cisco Meraki. His appointment has generated excitement within HotPMO, with Founder and CEO John McIntyre expressing enthusiasm about introducing Watson to clients in the coming weeks.

In his role as Director of Customer Strategy, Watson will focus on expanding HotPMO’s client base and driving new business growth. By deeply understanding clients’ strategic objectives and providing support throughout project delivery, he is expected to significantly enhance the firm’s customer strategy.

The announcement of Watson’s appointment coincides with another major development at HotPMO. The company is set to launch a new subscription service at the upcoming PMO Conference in London on June 15th. This service aims to provide clients with convenient access to expert support from PMO specialists, further solidifying HotPMO’s position as a leader in the PMO consultancy space.

Since its establishment in 2019, HotPMO has built a strong reputation for delivering niche consultancy services tailored to PMOs. The company’s expertise lies in providing clients with expert advice and support to effectively manage and deliver their projects.

In addition to its consulting services, HotPMO has forged valuable partnerships with industry leaders such as UiPath and Keto Software. These alliances reflect HotPMO’s dedication to offering clients best-in-class solutions for project management. The recently announced collaboration with Keto Software, highlighted in their blog post “Keto and HotPMO Revolutionizing Success,” is expected to bring about groundbreaking advancements.

For more information about HotPMO Ltd. and its comprehensive range of services, please visit their website at www.hotpmo.com.

North West residents urged to ‘Think Again’ to prevent skin cancer

Karen Jones
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North West Cancer Research is calling on local people to step up their sun safety routines and help reduce their chances of getting skin cancer as part of a new campaign.

The charity’s latest initiative, Think Again, urges people to wear sunscreen daily and to take other preventative steps, even when at home in the UK.

As a region, the North West’s skin cancer rates are 10% higher than the rest of the country, with Cumbria recording the highest numbers on average.

Now, North West Cancer Research, which is dedicated to tackling cancer rates and inequalities across the region, is determined to highlight the importance of protecting ourselves from sun damage and preventing skin cancer.

The Think Again campaign, which launched today, highlights the risks of exposing skin to the sun without protection and urges people of all ages to wear at least SPF 30 when out and about, especially as the weather warms up.

From today, the charity will be travelling across the North West handing out sunscreen samples and sharing advice and guidance on how to stay safe in the sun, starting with St Ann’s Square in Manchester city centre.

Among those supporting the charity’s latest campaign is 51-year-old Chris Maguire, who was diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer in January, after noticing a small lesion on his hairline.

He was quickly diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), which is the most common form of skin cancer. 

Chris, from Lancashire, said: “My own cancer story started in 2022. I was in the shower and noticed a spot – or lesion – under my hairline on the top of my head. It was really innocuous and because it was covered by pretty thick hair for someone of my age, I didn’t think it could be anything nasty.

 “I’m the person who goes on holiday and sits in the shade with the factor 50 on. I’ve never been on a sunbed and I wear a cap when I play cricket. I went to the GP and she referred me to a specialist ‘just to be sure’ – and it’s lucky she did. As soon as he saw the 8mm x 8mm lesion he said it had all the hallmarks of a BCC and referred me for a punch biopsy.

“I play a lot of cricket and I’m really keen to raise awareness among cricketers, golfers and people who spend a lot of time outdoors. Enjoy the sun but do it safely.”

There are two types of skin cancer – melanoma and non-melanoma. Both types are more common in older people, although melanoma has a higher percentage of younger people being diagnosed.

Common symptoms include moles changing in shape or size or new ones appearing.

Non-melanoma skin cancer is usually associated with those who spend a lot of time in the sun and is most commonly recognised by a lump or discoloured patch of skin that doesn’t disappear and slowly progresses over months or years.

While non-melanoma skin cancer is highly treatable and less likely to spread, both forms should be taken seriously and symptoms acted upon if present, according to skin cancer specialist Sarah Allinson.

Sarah, who is a senior lecturer in cancer biology at Lancaster University, said: “It’s crucial that we take skin cancer – in all its forms – seriously.

“There are various signs and symptoms, such as changes in moles or new lesions appearing, but it’s important to know what’s normal for you. Even if something looks like it’s nothing, but it’s abnormal for you, go and get it checked.

“Understanding your risk factor is also important so, for example, a fair-skinned, freckly person will have a higher chance of developing skin cancer than someone with perhaps darker skin.

“However, this does not mean that darker skinned people are free from risk and it’s vital that everyone, regardless of their skin type, take the appropriate measures to protect themselves, both at home and when on holiday abroad.”

Overall, people living in the North West are more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, with rates being generally higher than the rest of the country.

As part of its ongoing work, North West Cancer Research is dedicated to breaking the pattern in the region and bringing down cancer rates for future generations by funding life-saving research and education to tackle the cause, improve the care and find the cure for cancer.

CEO Alastair Richards, who underwent surgery to remove a non-melanoma cancer in 2021, said: “In my case, I initially looked at my mole and assumed it was fine and nothing to worry about. It wasn’t until my wife and the team at work mentioned it that I decided to take action.

“Luckily, mine was removed and hasn’t returned since, but it’s so important that we learn how to protect ourselves.

“As a nation, we have a tendency to think that, unless we’re lying on a sunny beach on holiday, then we don’t need to wear sunscreen. This could not be further from the truth and it’s worrying how many people still believe this myth and fail to protect their skin on a daily basis.

“In the North West, we have higher rates of skin cancer – this should absolutely not be the case and it needs to change.

“Our hope is that, by launching our campaign, we can in fact make people ‘think again’ and pick up a bottle of sunscreen before they head out. It’s such an easy thing to do, but something that could help prevent you developing skin cancer later in life.”

For more information on the campaign and how to support North West Cancer Research, visit www.nwcr.org

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