Claiming Personal Injury Compensation for an Asbestos Related Disease

Specialist Asbestos Solicitors
  Information about the specialist asbestos solicitors at Thompsons
Types of Asbestos Related Diseases
  Information about various asbestos related illnesses
Making a Personal Injury Compensation Claim for an asbestos related illness
  The procedure when making a claim for an asbestos related disease
Client Stories about asbestos compensation claims
  Details of real cases Thompsons' asbestos solicitors have helped with
Thank you letters from our clients
  Extracts from letters received from clients our asbestos solicitors have helped
Asbestos Exposure Compensation Advice
  How to obtain free advice about starting a claim for an asbestos related disease
News on asbestos Issues
  Recent News Stories Published about asbestos
Helpful Contacts
  Organisations providing further advice regarding asbestos

Specialist Asbestos Solicitors

Information about the specialist asbestos solicitors at Thompsons

At Thompsons, we have lawyers who specialise in dealing only with compensation claims for asbestos related disease.

Thompsons has established its reputation as a leading firm of solicitors by aggressively pursuing claims against employers and insurance companies for clients who suffer from asbestos related illnesses. Working in teams, our specialist lawyers deal with asbestos compensation claims in Thompsons’ offices throughout England and Wales.

Our teams of specialist asbestos lawyers act for clients who have developed asbestos related diseases due to asbestos exposure from employment across a wide range of different occupations. We have acquired extensive experience from dealing with thousands of cases for clients and their families in asbestos compensation claims since Thompsons brought the first ever successful case for asbestos related disease in the UK in the House of Lords in 1972. And we have been involved in groundbreaking asbestos compensation cases ever since.

Although we have a formidable reputation for fighting hard to obtain the maximum amount of compensation in the minimum time, we also never forget that the diagnosis of asbestos related disease can cause shock, anger and deep distress. We understand the importance of treating our clients with compassion, dignity and respect.

Regardless of the outcome of the claim or the amount of compensation recovered the service we provide to clients with asbestos related illness is entirely cost-free. And in every successful case the client will receive 100% of the compensation recovered.

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Types of Asbestos Related Diseases

Information about various asbestos related illnesses

There are different types of asbestos related disease and each condition varies in severity. The conditions include Pleural Plaques, Pleural Thickening, Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer and Asbestosis.   Asbestosis is sometimes misused as a general term for any asbestos related disease or asbestos related illness. It is very important to establish from the outset which asbestos related illness has been diagnosed.

Exposure to asbestos fibres has been recognised as an occupational health hazard since the early 1900s. As well as those who have been exposed to asbestos at work, family members and others living with anyone employed in an asbestos contaminated workplace may have an increased risk of developing the fatal asbestos related cancer, mesothelioma. This risk arises from exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of workers who have been exposed to asbestos.

The first compensation claims against asbestos manufacturers were in 1929. Since then, many compensation claims have been made against asbestos manufacturers and employers for failing to implement safety measures as soon as the link between asbestos exposure and diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma became known.

Regardless of which asbestos related condition has been diagnosed, if it can be proven that it was caused by exposure to asbestos by a negligent party, then (with the exception of pleural plaques) it may be possible to make a personal injury claim for compensation. A recent House of Lords decision means pleural plaques are no longer compensatable. However; if you, or any member of your family, has been diagnosed with pleural plaques, you should still contact Thompsons Solicitors for free advice.

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Making a Personal Injury Compensation Claim for an asbestos related illness

The procedure when making a claim for an asbestos related disease

In the United Kingdom a personal injury compensation claim for an asbestos related disease must be started within three years from the date when the person suffering the condition became aware of the diagnosis. In fatal cases the claim must be commenced within three years of the date of death, or within three years from the date the deceased’s family became aware that the cause of death was due to asbestos if asbestos exposure was only discovered to be a relevant factor after the death, for example as a result of a post mortem examination or Coroner's Inquest. It is important that legal advice about making a claim is sought without delay.

Once you have decided to instruct a personal injury solicitor to act for you they will investigate whether the employer responsible for the asbestos exposure still exists or whether the insurers can be traced. If it is possible to pursue a claim it will also be necessary to investigate the medical issues and obtain evidence to assess and prove the potential value of the claim.

At Thompsons our expert asbestos solicitors have assembled an extensive database containing information about previous asbestos claims and details of employers liability insurers for companies which are no longer trading. The contents of this archive is based on information obtained from thousands of successful industrial disease claims over the last 30 years. Having access to this wealth of background information assists us to investigate and pursue cases for clients suffering from asbestos related disease.

Choosing the right firm of solicitors who have the necessary specialist expertise to deal with asbestos related disease claims is probably the most important decision any client can take. Thompsons Solicitors has unrivalled experience in this important and complex area of personal injury law.

Read an update written by Thompsons Solicitors about Landmark Legal Cases on Asbestos Compensation which includes the trigger issue decision. Click on the following link to view the initial report published in January 2008 as a PDF.

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Client Stories about asbestos compensation claims

Details of real cases Thompsons' asbestos solicitors have helped with

Philip Gibbon

Our asbestos solicitors recovered a six figure sum in mesothelioma compensation for the family of Mr Philip Gibbon who died in January 2005 as a result of mesothelioma, an asbestos related disease.  Mr Gibbon developed the disease whilst working as a shop fitter and joiner for William Nicholson & Son (Leeds) Limited and William Nicholson and Son Limited between 1966 and 1974.

Mr Gibbon worked in a factory where asbestos sheets were cut using a machine saw. The process caused asbestos fibres and asbestos dust to rise up into the atmosphere and into the breathing zone of Mr Gibbon. He was not provided with any respiratory protection and as a result was exposed to asbestos dust which resulted in his illness.

His wife, Mrs Margaret Gibbon said: "Philip died at the age of 60 at a time when he should have been looking forward to the remainder of his life. Instead he endured terrible illness for a year, suffering chest pains, debility and the need to depend on me and others. Nothing can bring back my husband, but people do need to be aware that this disease is a major killer and many more cases of it exist because of poor working conditions and the poor protection of employees. If families are in the same situation, they should seek support and help as soon as they can."

Mr Harrison

Mr Harrison was exposed to asbestos from 1950's until 1990's by different employers and went on to develop Pleural Plaques and Pleural Thickening - both asbestos-related conditions.

With the help of our expert asbestos solicitors he has received £10,000 compensation now with the provision to make a further claim in the future if his condition deteriorates and he develops a more serious asbestos-related illness / asbestos related disease.

To read Mr Harrison's comments on the service he received from Thompsons' asbestos solicitors, visit our Clients Comments section.

Mr Selby

With help from Thompsons' asbestos solicitors, a widow has recently been awarded £85,000 mesothelioma compensation on behalf of her husband who died after contracting an asbestos related disease.

Mrs Selby's husband contracted asbestosis and the fatal condition, mesothelioma as a result of working with asbestos many years before.

To read Mrs Selby's comments about the service she received from our asbestos solicitors visit our Clients Comments section.

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Thank you letters from our clients

Extracts from letters received from clients our asbestos solicitors have helped

The following are extracts from letters our asbestos solicitors have received from clients.  In some cases the letters have been written by the person suffering from an asbestos related illness and in other cases the letter has been written by a relative as the person affected by the asbestos related disease / asbestos related illness has already died.

• I am writing to you on behalf of my Mum to sincerely thank you for all the help and support you have given to us whilst pursuing the case against my Dad’s former employers. You were very gracious to my Dad when you visited him and patient with me, whilst I wrote up the background from feedback from my Dad when he was too ill to give the information to you all at once. You have kept us fully informed throughout – and we have appreciated these letters. When my Dad found out he was suffering from Mesothelioma he was extremely brave and didn’t think of himself – only my Mum. He wanted to pursue a case for compensation for her sake – so that she would have some financial support when he was no longer there. We were surprised at the size of the settlement (we didn’t dare hope for as much), but the amount means that my Mum can buy her own house and live comfortably for the rest of her life. It was always my Dad’s dream to buy his own house – but for a combination of factors, it was never possible to do so. It is wonderful to think that his dream can now be fulfilled.
• You recently obtained a substantial compensation payment awarded to me from ICI which will ensure my remaining years are comfortable and secure. It was important to me and my family that ICI finally accepted responsibility for the death of my beloved husband, who died of Mesothelioma. I would like to thank you and your team most sincerely for your hard work and commitment to the cause of people affected by this terrible disease after being in contact with asbestos.
• I thought I would write a letter of thanks to you after receiving the latest cheque you sent me. I greatly appreciate all you did in the way you dealt with Bill’s claim, I couldn’t have wished for better care and consideration you gave to Bill and me and I’m only very sorry that my beloved husband isn’t here to thank you and all your staff himself.
• With reference regarding final settlement for my compensation, I wish to express my sincere gratitude for your invaluable help and advice. Not having any previous experience with Solicitors, I sought help from an Asbestos Support Group who immediately put me in touch with your firm. Thompsons Solicitors have proved to be specialists in this field. As you know I was diagnosed with Mesothelioma in February 2004 and cannot explain my feelings at that time, now I can rest assured knowing my wife and family will be supported financially in the future, thanks to your speedy and efficiency handling of my case.
• I thank you and your staff for handling my case for asbestosis in the very highest level. You have kept me fully informed and promptly dealt with all correspondence in a fast and efficient way. I am highly delighted with the speedy results and the cheque I received so quickly. May I send my praises to you and your staff.
• On behalf of my family and myself, I want to thank you and your staff for bringing successfully to an end, the case for my late husband. I will be writing to the Widnes and Runcorn asbestos support group and also St Rocco's Hospice (Warrington) to tell them how pleased we have been with your firm.
• This is a little card to you to say such a big thank you for all the hard dedicated work you have done for me and the family during these years since we lost (husband's name removed at widow's request). It has not just been a friendly informed voice on the telephone but a dedicated person, so easy to talk to.
• We cannot praise you enough for all the work you have done on our behalf. Your kind and caring attitude to us was a great comfort. Even if the outcome of this claim had not succeeded we are happy to have known you and we thank you most sincerely. We just wish it had been in happier circumstances.
• On behalf of my father and the rest of my family, I would like to express our grateful thanks for the professional and sensitive way my father's case was handled. The speedy and successful outcome was way beyond all our hopes at the beginning and it has certainly helped us all come to terms with the situation my father found himself in. My father has no objection whatsoever for his case to be used for publicity purposes if it will help anybody who finds himself or herself in the same position. Once again many thanks.
• My husband, the late Alfred David Hines died in April 2005 from Mesothelioma, a disease caused through working unprotected with asbestos.  My son contacted the Amicus Trade Union who supported my case for compensation throughout. 
  The case reached Liverpool County Court on Jan 4th 2007, and I am pleased to say the case was won.
  I would like to thank Amicus sincerely for their help and support during this difficult period, and for appointing Matthew Tollitt of Thompsons Solicitors (Liverpool) and the barrister who represented me at court.  Mr Tollitt worked hard to bring about this result, I am indebted to him, and to my husband’s fellow trade union members for statements made in support of my case.
• You have dealt with the whole case with such care and consideration to the way we were feeling that your duties as a solicitor far exceeded the service we expected, you obviously care a great deal for the people you represent and feel very passionately about the work you do. My Dad turned sixty five at Christmas and the money we have received should have gone a long way to seeing him enjoy his retirement and the time he had left with us, sadly that was not to be, but the money will be used wisely in carrying out his final wishes. The day I picked up the phone and called Thompsons, I was so glad that you were the person who dealt with my dad’s case. You are truly a credit to your firm and more people like you are needed to fight for people who have and are suffering through no fault of their own.
• May I and my family thank Thompsons Solicitors ... for acting on my behalf on my asbestos litigation claim. ... Thompsons Solicitors have a team to represent asbestos claimants and your representation and hard work on my behalf has been very assuring. When giving advice and guidance you did so in a calm and professional manner and it was taken on board. I believe you are a credit to your profession and one can see why Thompsons Solicitors are held in such high regard. May I end by thanking Thompsons Solicitors ... for the successful outcome of my asbestos litigation claim.

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Asbestos Exposure Compensation Advice

How to obtain free advice about starting a claim for an asbestos related disease

If you or someone you know believes that their working conditions have caused them to develop an asbestos related disease / asbestos related illness, telephone us now for asbestos exposure compensation advice from an expert asbestos solicitor.

There are strict time limits in place to make any injury claim.  For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.

Thompsons' asbestos solicitors are expert in dealing with claims for asbestos related illnesses and we will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury solicitors will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.

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News on asbestos Issues

Recent News Stories Published about asbestos

Over the years Thompsons' asbestos solicitors have helped many people suffering from asbestos related illnesses to fight for justice and claim the compensation they deserve.  We have also fought with Trade Unions and the families of people affected by asbestos to change unfair laws.

We have published important stories within the News Desk section of our website and links to a selection of these can be found below:

Recent News

2010

18th August 2010 - Working at Baltic Flour Mill killed our dad, say devastated daughters
17th August 2010 - Widow receives compensation for husband’s asbestos death
30th July 2010 - Army Cadet Major compensated by Erewash Council for asbestos disease
13th July 2010 - Prefab demolition led to fatal asbestos cancer
8th July 2010 - Mesothelioma sufferer’s search for information on exposure
29th June 2010 - Cadbury Bournville worker compensated for asbestos exposure
10th June 2010 - Leeds West MP takes up asbestos victims’ fight for justice
21st May 2010 - Derby man receives compensation for mesothelioma
12th May 2010 - Widow’s call for ELIB
11th May 2010 - Double tragedy for asbestos cancer victim
7th May 2010 - Joiner’s family compensated for mesothelioma death
6th May 2010 - Unite member compensated for mesothelioma
28th April 2010 - New support group for asbestos victims in the North East & Cumbria
27th April 2010 - Judge exposes “large hole” in employers’ insurance
23rd April 2010 - Essex family and local hospice receive mesothelioma compensation
15th April 2010 - Daughter’s search for father’s foundry workmates
13th April 2010 - Wallsend council worker’s family’s plea for information
12th April 2010 - British Rail worker compensated for mesothelioma
30th March 2010 - Power station worker’s widow compensated for asbestos death
23rd March 2010 - Asbestos compensation delayed by insurers
19th March 2010 - Yorkshire UNISON members compensated for asbestos related disease
8th March 2010 - British Rail worker’s family compensated for mesothelioma death
1st March 2010 - Wirral man receives compensation for asbestos disease
25th February 2010 - Government proposals for asbestos victims receives mixed reaction from Thompsons
24th February 2010 - Asbestos compensation for former Shell employee
22nd February 2010 - North West UNISON members compensated for asbestos related disease
15th February 2010 - £230,000 compensation for family of engineer
10th February 2010 - Thompsons welcomes plans for Insurance fund of Last Resort
9th February 2010 - Unite member compensated for asbestosis
8th February 2010 - Derby family call on Government to help asbestos victims
22nd January 2010 - Former BT employee compensated for asbestos related disease
21st January 2010 - Family’s plea for information about asbestos exposure
18th January 2010 - Terminal cancer sufferer wins £205,000 in asbestos claim
12th January 2010 - Asbestos victim’s search for former workmates
11th January 2010 - Retired police officer’s family receives asbestos compensation
8th January 2010 - Pleural Plaques Claims in Scotland
7th January 2010 - Asbestos victim receives compensation six months after cancer diagnosis
6th January 2010 - Grandfather disabled by asbestos related disease receives compensation

2009

22nd December 2009 - Widow’s search for husband’s former colleagues
16th December 2009 - Widow receives £100,000 compensation for husband’s death
14th December 2009 - Young mother’s family searches for asbestos witnesses
9th December 2009 - Widow receives £107,000 for husband’s death
8th December 2009 - Tate & Lyle compensate worker with asbestos disease
4th December 2009 - Family receives compensation for plumber’s death from mesothelioma
25th November 2009 - Asbestos sufferers and families invited to support group
17th November 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer receives £115,000 compensation
13th November 2009 - Family receives compensation for asbestos disease from T&N Trust
2nd November 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer receives £160,000 in compensation
20th October 2009 - Search for cigarette worker’s colleagues
13th October 2009 - Widower receives £100,000 for wife’s death from asbestos
8th October 2009 - School cleaner’s family compensated for asbestos related disease
5th October 2009 - Delivery driver’s successful asbestosis claim
30th September 2009 - T&N pensioner receives compensation
22nd September 2009 - Asbestos victim’s fight for justice
18th September 2009 - Lung cancer widow tells of plaques fear
10th September 2009 - Compensation secured for asbestosis sufferer
3rd September 2009 - Mesothelioma compensation allows sufferer to pursue alternative treatments
27th August 2009 - Confectioner’s search for witnesses
24th August 2009 - Family’s search for information on Tower Brewery
21st August 2009 - Mesothelioma caused by exposure to father’s work overalls
20th August 2009 - Family’s search for boiler fitter’s former workmates
6th August 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer warns of dangers of asbestos
31st July 2009 - Widower compensated for double tragedy
30th July 2009 - Nuclear worker compensated for mesothelioma
29th July 2009 - Unison backs warning by family of asbestos death joiner
22nd July 2009 - Retired policeman’s widow receives compensation for asbestos death
21st July 2009 - Cautious welcome for asbestos claims announcement
20th July 2009 - £175,000 for plumber with terminal asbestos disease
17th July 2009 - Bid to trace co-workers of tragic victim of asbestos
14th July 2009 - Compensation for bricklayer's widow
7th July 2009 - Asbestos danger in river and canal boats
6th July 2009 - Tailor’s family receives compensation
1st July 2009 - Electrician’s widow receives £290,000 damages
22nd June 2009 - £250,000 compensation for asbestos widow
18th June 2009 - Compensation recovered for asbestosis victim
17th June 2009 - Settlement for asbestos lung cancer widow
9th June 2009 - Chimney manufacturer compensates asbestos victim
8th June 2009 - Bid to trace cancer victim’s co-workers
26th May 2009 - MOD settle Devonport asbestos claim
19th May 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer’s family receives compensation
18th May 2009 - Thousands join call for National Centre for Asbestos
14th May 2009 - Hartlepool docker awarded compensation
8th May 2009 - Successful fight for asbestos compensation
7th May 2009 - Pleural Plaques announcement delayed again
29th April 2009 - £650,000 damages for mesothelioma widow
27th April 2009 - Search for Ascania’s crew
23rd April 2009 - Thompsons criticise insurers’ judicial review in Scotland
23rd April 2009 - Asbestos victim’s fight for justice
14th April 2009 - New research reinforces asbestos dangers
8th April 2009 - Pleural Plaques announcement due after Easter
6th April 2009 - Settlement for asbestos worker’s lung cancer
3rd April 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer’s diary highlights care concerns
27th March 2009 - Family’s search for information on Yorkshire businesses
26th March 2009 - Plumber’s search for former colleagues
20th March 2009 - Insurers challenge asbestosis compensation
17th March 2009 - Family’s search for information on Tower Brewery
16th March 2009 - Pleural plaques postcode lottery
16th March 2009 - Five figure compensation for lagger’s asbestos disease
12th March 2009 - Employers’ liability Bill launched in Parliament
11th March 2009 - Campaign given backing by MP
5th March 2009 - Confectioner’s search for witnesses
4th March 2009 - Mesothelioma sufferer receives £200,000
3rd March 2009 - Compensation for family of mother exposed to asbestos on work clothes
23rd February 2009 - Silent Victims and heroes honoured during Action Mesothelioma Day
16th February 2009 - Family’s search for information on J W Roberts Factory
13th February 2009 - Unite Ensures Asbestos Victims’ Claims Honoured by Government
13th February 2009 - South Shields MP visits Thompsons Offices
12th February 2009 - Pipefitter’s claim leads to discovery of asbestosis
6th February 2009 - UK’s MPs support plaques campaign
2nd February 2009 - Asbestos compensation secured for shipwright’s family
28th January 2009 - Fight for pleural plaques compensation continues
27th January 2009 - Asbestos death claim brought one day before deadline
26th January 2009 - Widower’s search for wife’s work colleagues
23rd January 2009 - What is good enough for the motor insurance market is good enough for the workers
23rd January 2009 - Postcode lottery over pleural plaques
23rd January 2009 - Uninsured employers are getting away with murder - Thompsons calls for an insurance fund of last resort
22nd January 2009 - Unions back pleural plaques campaign
21st January 2009 - Widow’s search for husband’s work colleagues
20th January 2009 - Pleural Plaques Campaign is launched
15th January 2009 - Insurer found in Ward Brothers’ mesothelioma claim
14th January 2009 - Pub landlord compensated for asbestos cancer
12th January 2009 - Family of Deceased Asbestos Victim win Compensation Claim

2008

29th December 2008 - Welder receives compensation for pleural thickening
23rd December 2008 - Nephew’s search for uncle’s asbestos exposure
22nd December 2008 - Mesothelioma victim’s search for asbestos exposure
19th December 2008 - Self employed joiner’s family receive compensation for asbestos death
16th December 2008 - Royal Shakespeare Company employee develops asbestos related disease
11th December 2008 - Bookstore owner receives compensation for asbestos exposure
8th December 2008 - Joiner with Pleural Plaques Develops Mesothelioma
3rd December 2008 - Family’s Search for Dad’s Former Work Colleagues
2nd December 2008 - McAlpines’ Former Employee Compensated for Pleural Thickening
1st December 2008 - Thompsons Solicitors Win Compensation for Swindon Rail Employee
24th November 2008 - Cancer sufferer receives compensation after exposure to asbestos
21st November 2008 - Unite defends the right to Mesothelioma Compensation
20th November 2008 - UNISON secures Compensation for Mesothelioma Widow
18th November 2008 - GMB Member Receives £140,000 in Compensation
12th November 2008 - Engineer’s Search for Former Work Colleagues
7th November 2008 - Family’s Search for Dinner Lady’s Former Colleagues
5th November 2008 - Former Electrician’s Family Receives £172,000 in Compensation
3rd November 2008 - New Asbestos Victims’ Group Launched
21st October 2008 - Widow’s search for Husband's work colleagues
6th October 2008 - Asbestos Compensation Secured for Mesothelioma Victim
2nd October 2008 - Did you used to work at Constone, based in Wigston or George Shaw, based in Birtsall?
2nd October 2008 - Unison secures compensation for Asbestos Victim
1st October 2008 - UK’s most experienced trade union law firm calls on Government to take bold steps to restore pleural plaques compensation
29th September 2008 - Benefits for all Mesothelioma Sufferers
17th September 2008 - Greater Manchester Family Obtains £205,000 in Asbestos Compensation
4th September 2008 - New Support Group for those affected by Mesothelioma
21st August 2008 - Hartlepool Family given go ahead to Claim Compensation
20th August 2008 - Family of Lytham Plumber Awarded Compensation
13th August 2008 - Family of former BNFL employee wins compensation
6th August 2008 - Family Receive Substantial Compensation from Electricity Company
31st July 2008 - Claim for Mesothelioma Compensation settled in under 10 weeks
29th July 2008 - Do you have any information about Porch Watt Developments Company Limited?
7th July 2008 - Staff from Thompsons Solicitors pulled on their running shoes to help raise funds for families affected by mesothelioma
30th June 2008 - A dedicated team of lawyers who fight for compensation on behalf of people suffering from asbestos related disease have recovered more than £11.6 million for clients in the last 12 months.
27th June 2008 - The family of a former UNISON member has received more than £140,000 in compensation following his death from mesothelioma
23rd June 2008 - Almost £2 million in compensation has been recovered from a defunct asbestos company and paid to asbestos victims and their families
20th June 2008 - Urgent appeal for Richard Bourne Porch to contact Thompsons Solicitors
6th June 2008 - Pleural Plaques Debate
2nd June 2008 - Unite backs High Court test case on behalf of thousands of asbestos victims
20th May 2008 - Compensation recovered from EON Plc after worker exposed to asbestos
16th May 2008 - Widow of a Unite member has received over £115,000 in compensation
15th May 2008 - Widow's seven year wait for compensation for her husband’s death has finally come to an end
14th May 2008 - Widow receives compensation after her husband died of asbestos-related disease mesothelioma
13th May 2008 - Appeal for former employees of Dunston power station
12th May 2008 - The family of a former Turner and Newall employee has received compensation after their sister died from asbestosis
7th May 2008 - Grandfather, exposed to asbestos has been compensated by his former employers
29th April 2008 - Widow from Mold secures compensation after husband died from mesothelioma
15th April 2008 - Former shipyard worker from Liverpool is awarded compensation
15th April 2008 - Office Worker exposed to asbestos is awarded compensation
14th April 2008 - British Rail worker exposed to asbestos is awarded compensation
2nd April 2008 - Lung Cancer Victim awarded Compensation
27th March 2008 - MPs have vowed to help a group of mesothelioma sufferers and their families fight for fairer compensation for bereavement
25th March 2008 - A Yorkshire widow has won damages after her husband died from a devastating lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos
19th March 2008 - Family of seamstress who died from mesothelioma appeal for information
7th March 2008 - Woman exposed to asbestos while working for a clothes factory when she was a teenager has been awarded more than £135,000 in compensation
29th February 2008 - The family of a sheeter who died from asbestos related disease mesothelioma face an agonising wait for compensation for his death
28th February 2008 - Compensation for Grandad who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma
27th February 2008 - New Fund launched to enable families to raise money in the name of a loved one who has been affected by mesothelioma
15th February 2008 - Former fitter exposed to asbestos is awarded compensation
11th February 2008 - The family of a woman who died from asbestos related mesothelioma has won a six-year battle for compensation
8th February 2008 - National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) to make chemotherapy drug Alimta available on the NHS
7th February 2008 - Scarborough widow in desperate bid to trace colleagues of tragic victim of asbestos
6th February 2008 - Did you work with asbestos in Barking or live there as a child?
4th February 2008 - A widow from Harwich has received a substantial undisclosed payment in compensation after her husband was exposed to asbestos in the workplace
1st February 2008 - Government called to reverse a House of Lords decision which ended the right to compensation for the asbestos related injury pleural plaques.
22nd January 2008 - Read an update published by Thompsons Solicitors about Landmark Legal Cases on Asbestos Compensation
21st January 2008 - Compensation for former Welder exposed to asbestos who developed Lung Cancer
17th January 2008 - Merseyside man suffering from asbestosis sues 4 former employers for £25,000
15th January 2008 - Did you work at Prudhoe hospital between 1971 and 1979?
14th January 2008 - Justice for families affected by asbestos DVD
2nd January 2008 - Retired Joiner diagnosed with Asbestosis

2007

21st December 2007 - The widow of a Portsmouth coppersmith has received a substantial six-figure compensation payment after her husband was exposed to asbestos
19th December 2007 - Increase in compensation for bereavement
13th December 2007 - The family of a man who died of mesothelioma has a substantial undisclosed payment in compensation.
3rd December 2007 - Pipe Fitter and Plumber exposed to asbestos
26th November 2007 - A step forward for life extending cancer drug, Alimta
9th November 2007 - Grandad exposed to asbestos during his work as a plumber for Wirral Borough Council
6th November 2007 - UNITE member awarded compensation after developing a deadly cancer after being exposed to asbestos in the workplace
17th October 2007 - Asbestos Victims Let Down By House of Lords Decision
12th October 2007 - Mesothelioma sufferers call for fairer compensation
10th October 2007 - Justice for families Affected by Asbestos
5th October 2007 - Delegation want to improve ship breaking standards in India
27th September 2007 - Shipbuilder from Hull is another victim of asbestos
26th September 2007 - Desperate bid to trace colleagues of tragic victim of asbestos
14th September 2007 - Alimta Appeal
13th September 2007 - Compensation for widow of a joiner who died of mesothelioma
11th September 2007 - Compensation after husband died from mesothelioma
10th September 2007 - TUC is supporting Thompsons Solicitors’ campaign, Justice for Asbestos Families
3rd September 2007 - Witness appeal by family of a man who died of asbestos related disease mesothelioma
10th August 2007 - Mesothelioma, the UK’s third fastest increasing cancer
9th August 2007 - Former workers of a North East company, who were exposed to asbestos at work, are being denied thousands of pounds in compensation
7th August 2007 - A man who was exposed to asbestos while working as steel erector has been compensated after developing an asbestos-related disease
2nd August 2007 - Thompsons calls for increase in compensation for victims of asbestos cancer
30th July 2007 - Compensation for mesothelioma victim
18th July 2007 - Victim of mesothelioma receives £160,000 compensation
10th July 2007 - Justice for families Affected by Asbestos
9th July 2007 - NICE to make mesothelioma drug Alimta available on the NHS
4th July 2007 - Mesothelioma victim's family calls for witnesses who worked at Stanton and Staveley
22nd June 2007 - Asbestos-Related Pleural Plaques Appeal in the House of Lords
21st June 2007 - The family of a former British Rail worker has won compensation following his death from an asbestos-related disease
20th June 2007 - New Bill to assist mesothelioma victims
12th June 2007 - Desperate bid to trace co-workers of tragic victim of asbestos
11th June 2007 - Campaign to achieve justice for families affected by asbestos
29th May 2007 - Former electrician's mate awarded compensation after developing mesothelioma
24th May 2007 - Justice for families affected by Asbestos
11th May 2007 - MP David Miliband has stepped in to help a former shipyard worker gain access to a compensation award
9th May 2007 - Increase in number of people who have died from mesothelioma
8th May 2007 - Desperate bid to trace co-workers of tragic victim of asbestos
3rd May 2007 - Compensation from a defunct asbestos company
27th April 2007 - Thompsons Solicitors has launched a petition to raise awareness of occupational cancer, mesothelioma, on Workers Memorial Day
23rd April 2007 - Families affected by the dangerous dust asbestos are being asked to find out more about the help and advice available to them at a meeting on Thursday, April 26
16th April 2007 - Justice for Asbestos Families
10th April 2007 - Thompsons Solicitors has successfully won compensation for a woman who was exposed to asbestos dust as a youngster
5th April 2007 - Thousands of dock workers across the UK are able to sue the Government for compensation after a court ruling yesterday (Wednesday, April 4)
3rd April 2007 - Workers who were exposed to deadly asbestos dust while repairing ships on the Tyne are being forced to wait for compensation payouts worth thousands of pounds
2nd April 2007 - Thompsons Solicitors has helped a widow obtain £295,000 in compensation after her husband was exposed to asbestos as a 15-year-old apprentice
27th March 2007 - The GMB Northern is urging its members to be aware of the dangers of asbestos in the workplace
16th March 2007 - Cornish man exposed to asbestos
15th March 2007 - Leyton man suffering from asbestos cancer in desperate attempt to track down former work colleagues
13th March 2007 - Thompsons welcomes Government's announcement that it will be extending state benefits to more mesothelioma victims
1st March 2007 - Compensation following exposure to dangerous asbestos fibres
27th February 2007 - National Action Mesothelioma Day
27th February 2007 - Action Mesothelioma Day DVD
23rd February 2007 - Leading trade union Amicus has secured compensation for the family of a former shipyard worker on Tyneside who died from mesothelioma
19th February 2007 - North East MP David Anderson is questioning the Department for Health over the future of mesothelioma drug Alimta
14th February 2007 - ASLEF member receives £23,500 for asbestos-related pleural thickening
8th February 2007 - Feltham widow in desperate attempt to track down witnesses who worked at Watney’s Brewery following husband’s death from asbestos
2nd February 2007 - Bailiffs to recover compensation for mesothelioma widow as insurer fails to pay on time
29th January 2007 - A Teesside widow is calling for her husband’s former work colleagues to get in touch after he died from an asbestos-related condition
22nd January 2007 - A North Yorkshire man has won a bid for compensation after he was exposed to deadly asbestos fibres as an apprentice
22nd January 2007 - A dedicated team of lawyers is working with trade union, the GMB, to ensure people suffering from asbestos related diseases in Cumbria can claim compensation
19th January 2007  - A final decision on an important chemotherapy drug, which could help scores of mesothelioma sufferers across the UK, may not be announced for another nine months
12th January 2007 - Essex pensioner awarded compensation following asbestos exposure

2006

21st December 2006 - The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (Nice) has dismissed an appeal on mesothelioma drug Alimta
15th December 2006 - British Rail forced to pay compensation as two former employees die from asbestos cancer mesothelioma
29th November 2006 -End insurer windfall in mesothelioma claims
29th November 2006 - Cadbury is sued following former employee’s death from asbestos cancer mesothelioma
28th November 2006 - Teeside asbestos widow has been awarded full compensation for her husband's death
23rd November 2006 - James Bond filmset at heart of asbestos compensation case
20th November 2006 - Ford and the MoD forced to pay compensation as former London plumber dies from asbestos cancer mesothelioma
17th November 2006 - Widow in desperate attempt to track down witnesses who worked at Brush following husband’s death from mesothelioma
13th November 2006 - Stratford widow in desperate bid to trace co-workers following husband’s tragic death from asbestos cancer
10th November 2006 - Insurers make widow wait as they squabble over payouts
9th November 2006 - Ford to pay over £100,000 compensation to former employee now dying from asbestos cancer
8th November 2006 - Deadly asbestos cancer finds new younger victims
31st October 2006 - Government acts with “compassion” on asbestos victims
20th October 2006 - Debate over whether asbestos bill should be paid in full
17th October 2006 - Asbestos victims and their families lobby Parliament for funding of Alimta for mesothelioma treatment
16th October 2006 - -Appeal to the Law Lords to reinstate compensation for pleural plaques sufferers
12th October 2006 - Former Yorkshire Water employee and GMB member secures £30,000 following asbestos exposure
12th October 2006 - MPs show support for continued access to life extending cancer drug
11th October 2006 - Five year freeze on asbestos compensation lifted
6th October 2006 - Compensation Act helps North West widow secure full compensation following husband’s death from mesothelioma
29th September 2006 - Law firm raises concerns over asbestos admin and legal fees
28th September 2006 - Funds raised for research into Mesothelioma
20th September 2006 - Derbyshire widow in desperate attempt to track insurers of local factory following husband’s death from asbestos
20th September 2006 - Insurers of local Foundry sought by Asbestos Victim
12th September 2006- Fair compensation for asbestos victims
8th September 2006 - T&N claimants vote for asbestos scheme
5th September 2006- Asbestos victims in final wait for compensation outcome
28th August 2006 - Campaign for life-extending drug, Alimta
18th August 2006 - Fundraising event for National Macmillan Mesothelioma Resource Centre
18th August 2006 - Grandmother lost four members of her family to asbestos related illnesses
15th August 2006  - Tenby family secure over £200,000 compensation for tragic victim of asbestos cancer
15th August 2006 - Shipyard worker helped to convince Prime Minsister to restore right to compensation for mesothelioma victims.
14th August 2006 - Hillingdon widow in bid to trace co-workers following husband’s tragic death from asbestos cancer
20th July 2006 - Compensation for Widow after husband died of asbestos-related illness, mesothelioma
20th July 2006 - Research into drug to extend Mesothelioma sufferers’ lives funded by North East Research Fund
19th July 2006 - Compensation for Mesothelioma Restored
13th July 2006 - Compensation for victims of asbestos
28th June 2006 - Widow speaks out about Government’s compassion for mesothelioma victims
20th June 2006 - Government shows real compassion, but must act for all victims, lawyers say.
16th June 2006 - Can you help Linda Carter?
13th June 2006 - Asbestos Register is Launched
13th June 2006 - Thompsons calls for swift action after Prime Minister's announcement on asbestos
7th June 2006 - Thompsons call for life-extending medicine to be available for mesothelioma victims
3rd May 2006 - Lords slash asbestos compensation (Also reported by the BBC at "Widows Lose Asbestos Court Ruling".
8th March 2006 - Widows face new asbestos challenge
23rd February 2006 - 5,000 North East residents sign Action Mesothelioma Petition
26th January 2006 - Pleural plaques test case ruling will deprive thousands of people of their right to compensation

Archived News

2005

Asbestos cancer drug postcode lottery victory, Insurers try to overturn 20 years of case law to halt asbestos payouts, Family of mesothelioma victim wins compensation, Desperate bid to trace co-workers of tragic victim of asbestos, NASAG recovers over £1 million in compensation for asbestos victims, Insurers fail in bid to stop compensation for thousands of asbestos victims, Desperate bid to trace co-workers of tragic victim of asbestos

2004

Asbestos tragedy for wife who washed husband's clothes, Desperate bid to trace colleagues of tragic victim of asbestos, Asbestos warning for firefighters, Insurers' second challenge on asbestos compensation,

2003

Royal and SunAlliance ruling partial victory for asbestos victims, Landmark settlement brings justice for thousands of SA former asbestos miners,

2002

Lords restore justice to thousands of asbestos victims and widows,

2001

Judges rob thousands of asbestos victims and widows of compensation, Asbestos campaigners welcome compensation deal, Collapsed insurance firm bounces asbestos victims' compensation cheques - future asbestos claims in jeopardy


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Helpful Contacts

Organisations providing further advice regarding asbestos

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) - The information on this website will be of particular interest to employers, asbestos contractors and others with duties under asbestos regulations, together with those workers currently at greatest risk from exposure to asbestos.

The Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) - is a non-profit trade association committed to promoting the growth and image of the UK’s asbestos abatement industry. ARCA is committed to working with enforcing authorities and member companies to strive for continuous improvement in standards, quality, safety and efficiency.

Cancer Research UK - provide a free information service about cancer and cancer care for people with cancer and their families. We believe that information about cancer should be freely available to all and written in a way that people can easily understand.

The British Lung Foundation - One person in seven in the UK is affected by a lung disease. Whether it's mild asthma or lung cancer, the British Lung Foundation is here for every one of them.

Directgov - General information about what to do if you find asbestos in your home and how to apply for an asbestos inspection.

The TUC / HSE have published a brief guide on asbestos and the regulations.  It contains advice about what to do if you discover asbestos in your workplace.

To read information leaflets Thompsons have published about asbestos claims, visit 'Asbestos Related Diseases - Claiming Compensation' and 'Asbestos related diseases'.

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