The scheme was widened by the Government in 2008 and you can now claim however your exposure occurred, for example, from washing your husband's overalls, or from a building where asbestos was disturbed, or through DIY activities.

Previously, it'd only been awarded to those exposed to asbestos in the course of their employment.

The amounts payable are calculated according to a sliding scale from age 37 onwards.  A specific amount will be payable dependent on your age. Awards are slightly higher where exposure has been as a result of employment.

Payments will generally be made within six weeks of an application being made and sometimes as quickly as three to four weeks.

Should a civil claim be pursued the lump sum will be deducted from any compensation received and the employer (or their insurer) will repay it to the Government. This means that the scheme will be mostly self funding.

If you're a dependent of a mesothelioma sufferer you're able to apply for this award after the sufferer's death, although there are time limits which apply.

Should you require any further information about these payments or if you want to know how to get an application form, ask a question using the button below or contact us on 03700 86 86 86.

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