Diagnosed with mesothelioma
The 76-year-old from Liverpool was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs in October 2010.
There is no cure for the disease which is caused only by exposure to asbestos.
Exposed to asbestos whilst working as an electrician
The father of four, grandfather of nine and great grandfather of two was exposed to asbestos whilst working as an electrician on government buildings maintenance contracts at Windsor View in Liverpool between 1966 and 1976.
During his time he was never warned about the dangers of asbestos nor provided with any protection.
He said: “Asbestos was just part of the job. We were never told that it might affect our health in the future and we weren’t provided with any protective gear. We just got on with the job.
“When I was first diagnosed with mesothelioma I was angry that I had spent all that time being exposed to asbestos but my employers did nothing to warn me.”
Asbestos claims experts, Thompsons Solicitors
Following his diagnosis he contacted his trade union Unite, which instructed asbestos claims experts Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation.
Thompsons pursued the employer’s insurers vigorously and issued proceedings in the specialist mesothelioma list in the Royal Courts of Justice in London within five months of being instructed. The insurers settled the claim out of court shortly afterwards.
The electrician added: “I am receiving chemotherapy and feel well at the moment. It was vital to me to claim compensation for my wife. I’m impressed with how quickly it has all been dealt with.”
Free Legal Assistance
Paul Finegan from Unite added: “This member was exposed to asbestos in the workplace at a time when employers knew about the dangers. By contacting the union he has received specialist legal assistance entirely free of charge.”
Steven Dickens from Thompsons Solicitors said: “Even though this electrician’s employer no longer exists we were able to trace the insurers for the period he worked for them and as a result were able to settle his claim quickly during his lifetime.
“We appreciate how important it is for this family man to know that his wife will be provided for and hope that this compensation will provide him with that peace of mind.”