The Government's Pleural Plaques Former Claimants Payment Scheme opens for applications today.
Pleural plaques are small, localised areas of fibrosis caused by exposure to asbestos fibres found within the pleura of the lung.
On 17 October 2007, the Law Lords upheld a Court of Appeal decision that the existence of pleural plaques does not constitute actionable or compensatable damage under the civil law.
In light of the medical evidence on the condition, including reports from the Chief Medical Officer for England and Wales and the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, the Government has confirmed that it does not consider it appropriate that the Law Lords decision should be overturned.
However, in recognition of the unique circumstances of those who had already begun, but not resolved, a legal claim for compensation before the Law Lords ruling, the Government has decided to make one-off payments of £5,000 to people in that category. The scheme will apply in England and Wales.
Alternatively phone the helpline: 0300 303 8150
Applications must be received by 1 August 2011 to be eligible.
For more information about workplace diseases, including pleural plaques and other asbestos related diseases, please contact a member of the team on 0114 266 6660.
Source: Ministry of Justice website - www.justice.gov.uk
