Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. It is a rare type of cancer, but it is also very aggressive and difficult to treat. Victims of mesothelioma often face significant medical bills, lost income, and other financial difficulties. However, there is hope for victims of mesothelioma, as they may be eligible to receive compensation through the Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (MPS).
The MPS was established by the UK government in 2014 to provide compensation to victims of mesothelioma who were exposed to asbestos while working for certain employers who are no longer in business. The scheme is funded by a levy on the insurance industry, and it provides a lump sum payment to eligible claimants.
To apply for compensation under the MPS, victims of mesothelioma must meet certain eligibility criteria. They must have been diagnosed with mesothelioma on or after 25 July 2012, and they must have been exposed to asbestos while working for an employer who is no longer in business or who is untraceable. In addition, they must not have already received compensation from the employer or their insurer.
If a victim of mesothelioma meets these eligibility criteria, they can apply for compensation under the MPS. The first step is to gather evidence to support their claim. This may include medical records, employment records, and other documentation that shows that they were exposed to asbestos while working for an eligible employer. Victims of mesothelioma can also seek the help of a specialist solicitor who has experience in handling mesothelioma claims.
Once the evidence has been gathered, the victim of mesothelioma can submit their claim to the MPS. The claim will be reviewed by the MPS administrator, who will assess the claim and determine if the victim is eligible for compensation. If the claim is approved, the victim will receive a lump sum payment.
The amount of compensation that a victim of mesothelioma can receive under the MPS depends on a number of factors, including their age, the severity of their illness, and their financial circumstances. The maximum payment is currently set at £123,000, but this may be adjusted in the future to reflect changes in the cost of living.
In addition to the MPS, victims of mesothelioma may also be eligible for compensation through other channels. For example, they may be able to make a claim against their former employer or their employer’s insurer. They may also be eligible for government benefits, such as the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit or the Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) Act 1979.
Overall, the Mesothelioma Payment Scheme provides a valuable lifeline for victims of mesothelioma who have been exposed to asbestos while working for an eligible employer. While nothing can fully compensate for the devastating effects of this disease, the MPS can help to ease the financial burden on victims and their families during a difficult time.
