Asbestos and Mesothelioma Benefits

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease, everything changes. If you’re worried about financial support and need advice, watch this video where Andrew Stinchcombe, Novum Law’s asbestos and mesothelioma specialist director speaks about the available benefits you may be entitled to.

 

Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)

The IIDB can be claimed if your exposure to asbestos happened when you were in employed work; however, unfortunately, you cannot claim for this benefit if you were self-employed.

Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance (PIP)

PIP can be claimed if you are under 65 and need assistance with your personal care. There are two elements: mobility and living. If you are aged over 65, this is referred to as Attendance Allowance.

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

The ESA replaces the Incapacity Benefit and Income Support, previously paid on incapacity grounds. It is also available if you are in employment.

Constant Attendance Allowance (CAA)

You can claim for the CAA if you receive Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit and you need daily care. The amount you are entitled to, depends on your disability and the amount of care you need.

Blue Badge

Blue Badge parking is a really practical benefit that allows disabled drivers and their passengers to park nearer to where they want to go.

Workers’ Compensation Act 1979

The Workers’ Compensation is a lump-sum payment that you or your family may be entitled to if you already receive the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

You are entitled to this benefit if your illness was caused by your employment.

Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment 2008

You can claim for the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment if you came into contact with asbestos while you were self-employed or through a family member – for example, by washing their work clothes.

An added advantage is that you can also claim if, like many, you don’t know how you came into contact with the asbestos.

Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS 2014)

You may be able to claim for the DMPS if:

• You were diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma on or after 25 July 2012
• Your illness was caused by exposure while working in the UK
• You or your Solicitor cannot trace the employer or your employer’s insurer
• You haven’t made a claim for compensation.

You may also be able to claim if you are the dependent of a sufferer who has sadly died.

Carer’s Allowance

You could get Carer’s Allowance if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week. And, you don’t have to be related to, or live with the person you care for.

War Pension lump sum

Those in the Military who were diagnosed during their service may be entitled to a War Pension as a lump sum or a weekly payment.

Help is at hand

If you’d like to find out more about these benefits and how to apply for them, we can help. Just Call Novum Law on 0345 357 9645 or email customersupport@simpsonmillar.co.uk to arrange a free, no-obligation chat.