State benefits for asbestos diseases - what you need to know and now
As you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer (or another asbestos disease causing disability) you may apply for State benefits. Many of these benefits are available "as of right" and are not "means tested".
Immediately contact your local Department of Work & Pensions [DWP] Jobcentre plus office. Explain that you or your relative [or deceased] has been diagnosed [or died] for example from mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure and enquire as to the benefits that are available. Benefits may include Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit if it is a work related illness (ie exposure to asbestos took place at work when employed many years ago ). For other State benefits [the names and applicable benefits applicable to your individual circumstances may change over time] available useful guidance is provided by Cancerhelp.uk or again on the DWP/Jobcentre website.
If your exposure to asbestos was at work when you were employed complete a further application form for a Pneumoconiosis etc (Workers Compensation) Act 1979 award payment if exposed to asbestos at work. The Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers Compensation (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2010 for revised and increased amounts of awards came into force 1 April 2010.
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2010/draft/ukdsi_9780111491799_en_1
If you have mesothelioma and not exposed to asbestos at work you can apply by completing an application form for a Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and Amounts) Regulations 2008 award payment as introduced in October 2008 which is an extension to the Pneumoconiosis Scheme. See Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and Amounts) (Amendment) Regulations 2010 for revised and increased amounts of awards (came into force 1 April 2010).
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2010/draft/ukdsi_9780111491805_en_1
The amount of most benefits (save IIDB) for asbestos induced illnesses will be based upon the extent of incapacity/disability.
For further information and application forms telephone Jobcentreplus/DWP Workers Compensation Unit.
Or DWP's Helpline 0800 279 2322
www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/draft/ukdsi_9780110818603_en_1
A civil law personal injury compensation claim
Contact a solicitors firm ASAP. In addition to claiming benefits you may also have a claim where negligence and/or breach of statutory duty can be established. Solicitors will provide initial free advice and discuss with you whether your claim has a reasonable prospect of success. Nearly all claims today are pursued "No win no fee".