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News Desk | News Story
15th April 2008
The granddad of two, who does not wish to be named, has been diagnosed with fatal cancer of the lining of the lungs, mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and is often diagnosed in those who have worked in heavy industries.
The man, from Bury, was exposed while working at Prestwich Unemployment Benefit Office during the late 70s and early 80s.
He worked for the Department for Work and Pensions for 30 years before retiring in 2000.
He said when he was diagnosed with mesothelioma he had no idea what it was. It was only when his consultant explained its causes that he knew he was exposed to dangerous asbestos dust while working at the benefits centre.
The claimant was given a letter from his department in 1984 saying asbestos had been found throughout his office. He had kept the letter all these years and it became integral in claiming compensation.
He said: “It was a massive shock to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. I had no idea what it was but when it was explained to me I immediately thought of this letter which was given to all members of staff.
“I feel quite angry now that they did not follow the letter up with a screening programme. They should have explained the consequences of what it meant to have asbestos in the building.
“I had no idea that this letter was really warning me that I could develop an asbestos related disease in the future. I never really understood its meaning.”
The claimant now hopes his compensation will help provide for his wife following his death.
He said: “My wife has given up work to care for me and I wanted to gain compensation so if anything happens to me she is provided for. It is a relief to know it has now been secured.”
Tony Whitston from the Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group said: “This case demonstrates the shocking fact that office workers are vulnerable to asbestos exposure if asbestos is not properly managed in buildings. This case is not only important in providing financial security for the family concerned but it is a warning to people responsible for buildings to manage asbestos properly.”
Joanne Candlish, client representative at Thompsons Solicitors added: “We are pleased we have been able to secure compensation for this client in his lifetime. Using the Royal Courts of Justice Fast Track procedure we have been able to give the claimant peace of mind that his family will be provided for.
“The fact the client had held on to the letter confirming there was asbestos in his workplace was pivotal in securing compensation.”
If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related disease, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any 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 compensation claim forms.