Shocking new data has revealed the "worryingly relaxed" attitude towards sun safety among parents of young children.

Of 1,000 parents surveyed by the Met Office and NHS England, a shocking 7% (14) said they have NEVER applied sunscreen to their children while 4% said their child has been sunburned so severely they have been admitted to hospital.

7% admitted allowing their children aged six-11 to use a UV tanning machine and a quarter (25%) encouraged their children under the age of 11 to get a tan.

More than a third (37%) believe that suntans are a sign of good health.

The survey results were released on Monday (June 26) in conjunction with the #CoverUpMate skin cancer campaign.

The Met Office said: "Sunburn in childhood has been strongly linked to the development of skin cancer in later years, making it a vital time for parents to ensure their children are protected."

It added that "while shocking, the figures can in some ways be explained by a lack of knowledge among parents of the damage the sun can inflict".

When asked about how and when they take precautions against the sun with their young children, more than one in five (21%) parents with children aged 11 and under said they wait until their child starts to visibly burn (turn pink) before they would decide to apply any sunscreen.

A similar number (20%) said they wait until their child requests it. In addition, by the time their child has reached eight years old, 23% of parents expect them to apply sunscreen themselves.

The survey also revealed that 7% of parents do not know that UV rays can make you burn and have strong links to cancer, 15% do not know you can be exposed to UV rays on cloudy days and 46% incorrectly think you can feel UV rays when the sun is strong.

Suncream is vital in the fight against skin cancer

Around a fifth (21%) do not realise you are most at risk of UV ray exposure from May to September.

Many parents admitted they have never checked the UV forecast (40%).

Clare Nasir, Met Office presenter and meteorologist, said: “As a sun-savvy mum, the findings are really worrying. Young children can’t be expected to apply their own sunscreen – they are unlikely to do it thoroughly, or forgo it completely.

"Protecting against skin cancer isn’t something parents should leave to chance.

“UV levels are usually highest between May and September. Clouds don’t always stop UV rays, and unlike the sun’s warmth, it’s difficult to know when they may be harming you. You can protect yourself and your family by checking the UV forecast on the Met Office app.”

Nigel Acheson, NHS England south region medical director, said: “It’s important that parents take extra care to protect their babies and children. Their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin, and damage caused by repeated exposure to UV could lead to skin cancer developing in later life.

"If the Met Office UV forecast is moderate or high, children aged under six months should spend time in the shade and out of direct sunlight – particularly from 11am to 3pm.

"We should all remember to cover up with suitable clothing and wear sunscreen with a good UV-A protection. If you’re unsure please visit the NHS Choices website for the latest sun safety advice.”