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12th January 2009

Family of Deceased Asbestos Victim win Compensation Claim

Asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma

UNISON, the UK’s largest public sector union, helped the relatives of Terence Dugdale, from Southampton, fight for compensation after he contracted cancer of the lung lining, mesothelioma.

The 60-year-old leaves behind six children and his wife Frances, who is warning others of the workplace hazard. She said: “Terence was very practical and wanted to make sure the children and I were looked after financially.

“We had no idea what mesothelioma was before Terence was diagnosed, but now the disease has taken him from us.

“As a family we now feel it is important to let people know how much pain and distress it causes.

“The compensation will never bring Terence back but it does fulfil his wish to know that we are provided for.”

Apprentice Gas Fitter exposed to asbestos

Mr Dugdale had been exposed to asbestos while working as an apprentice gas fitter for National Grid, between 1963 and 1968. He also worked as a housing maintenance inspector for Southampton City Council from 1973 to 1975.

When he was diagnosed with the disease, which can lay dormant for 40 years and has no cure, he was teaching apprentices as a college lecturer.

Phil Wood, UNISON South Regional Secretary said: “It is only right that asbestos victims and their families are compensated for their suffering and financial hardship.

“However, the money will never make up for the death of a much-loved family member and is a warning to employers regarding the long-term effects of workplace hazards.”

Ann-Marie Christie, from Thompsons’ solicitors, said: “Mesothelioma is a devastating disease for all involved.

“In the past many employers failed to take the necessary safeguards to protect their workers from the effects of asbestos and now families like the Dugdales are paying the price.”

Compensation Claim Advice

If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related disease, telephone us now for accurate compensation claim advice.

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

Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers 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.