From April 2010 the Government will increase lump sum payments made under the 2008 Scheme to bring them in line with those paid under the Pneumoconiosis (Workers Compensation) Act 1979.

Lump sum payments have been made by the Government since 1979 to those suffering from mesothelioma caused as a result of exposure to asbestos at work.

In October 2008 The Child Maintenance and other Payments Act came into force, extending the categories of people who could claim for lump sum payments for mesothelioma.

This meant asbestos sufferers who have been exposed to asbestos in other ways, for example in public buildings or women who've been exposed to asbestos through washing their husband's overalls, could claim. However, the payments being made were less than under the 1979 scheme.

Now the payments under both schemes will be brought in line, with the minimum payment being £11,678 and a maximum payment of £75,156. The payment levels have also increased by 1.5%.

This will provide important financial support for those diagnosed with mesothelioma, payments under these schemes generally being made within eight weeks of an application being made.

Anyone who receives a lump sum from the Government is still able to go on and claim against the company or public body who exposed them to asbestos to seek additional compensation. 

If successful, that company or public body will have to repay the lump payment back to the Government and the payment will be deducted from any final settlement offer.

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