How to make an asbestos compensation claim

On the 1st of October 2008, the government introduced a scheme for individuals suffering from diffuse mesothelioma, a disease relating to exposure to asbestos. Under certain circumstances, individuals who have been diagnosed with the disease may be entitled to the award of a one-off lump sum compensation payment. Learn more on how to make an asbestos compensation claim.

Eligibility

An individual is entitled to submit a claim for a one-off lump sum compensation payment if they: -Are unable to submit a claim under the 1979 Pneumoconiosis Act -Have not received payment for diffuse mesothelioma from an employer, a civil claim or elsewhere -Are not entitled to compensation as a result of a Ministry of Defence scheme. Scheme for compensation The scheme is designed for individuals who were exposed to asbestos in the United Kingdom and their exposure did not result from their work as an employee. Examples of whom the scheme is designed for, include: -Individuals who were exposed to asbestos from a relative -Individuals who were exposed to asbestos found in the environment -Individuals who were exposed to asbestos while self-employed -Individuals whose exposure to asbestos in the UK cannot be specified. The dependants of an individual who has died as a result of diffuse mesothelioma can also make a claim for compensation. The claim must be made within twelve months of the individual’s death.

Rates

The lump sum compensation payment that an individual is entitled to receive depends on their age at diagnosis. If the date of an individual’s diagnosis remains unknown, payment will be based on the individual’s age at the date of them submitting a claim.

Submitting a claim

An individual who wishes to receive compensation for their diffuse mesothelioma should submit their claim as soon as possible. All claims must be received within 12 months of receiving a diagnosis. The scheme aims for compensation 95 per cent of all claims within six weeks of receipt of the claim form. An individual will be required to submit medical evidence as a proof of diffuse mesothelioma diagnosis.
An individual should seek advice from a specialist asbestos litigation team if they have any concerns about submitting a claim for asbestos-related diseases.