With the highest rates of asbestos related disease Mesothelioma, the UK is the most exposed country in the world to this hidden killer.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), asbestos is the single greatest cause of work related deaths in the UK, and more and more cases are coming to light each and every day. It’s not just tradespeople who are at risk, recent articles have highlighted that the use of asbestos in our schools is putting both teachers and pupils at risk too.

Back in the 1980s very little was known about the dangers of asbestos and this material was widely used to construct commercial buildings, homes and schools. It has been estimated that 75% of UK secondary schools are contaminated with the deadly fibre.

With the recent introduction of The Mesothelioma Act 2014, it seems the government is finally recognising the plight of those affected by asbestos exposure. A Swansea-based law firm and asbestos case specialists unveils just how the new scheme can be used to seek the compensation you are entitled to.

“The Law states that anybody who has developed a disease as a result of working with asbestos is entitled to seek compensation. The Mesothelioma Act, which came into force on 31st March 2014, provides lump sum payments to those who have developed Mesothelioma in cases where it is difficult to locate an employer,” said Sonia McGarrigle, Solicitor at John Morse Solicitors and Senior Litigator with the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).

Exposure to asbestos does not present immediate problems, in facts symptoms can take between 15 and 50 years to develop. Early symptoms of Mesothelioma include fatigue, shortness of breath and reduced respiratory function.

Sonia added: “It is welcoming news that the Government at last appreciates the growing number of those affected by asbestos exposure, and the earlier a person seeks legal advice the better.”