Additional payment for people whose employer has gone out of business
Pneumoconiosis etc (Workers’ Compensation) Act 1979
This is an additional payment which you can claim. It covers people, or dependants of people, who suffer from certain industrial diseases caused by dust.
You can make a claim if you are unable to get damages from your employer who caused or contributed to the disease.
The diseases covered are:
- diffuse mesothelioma
- pneumoconiosis (including asbestosis, silicosis and kaolinosis)
- diffuse pleural thickening
- primary carcinoma of the lung if accompanied by asbestosis or diffuse pleural thickening
- byssinosis.
How to claim
- If you are suffering from one of the above diseases and you think you may be entitled to a payment, contact the Pneumoconiosis etc (Worker’s Compensation) Act 1979 Section as soon as possible.
Do not wait for the outcome of your claim under the Industrial Injuries scheme before you make a claim for this additional payment.
The 2008 Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme
This is a scheme for people suffering from the asbestos-related disease, diffuse mesothelioma.
Eligibility
You can claim a one-off lump sum payment if you:
- are unable to claim under the 1979 Pneumoconiosis Act
- have not received a payment in respect of the disease from an employer, a civil claim or elsewhere and
- are not entitled to compensation from a Ministry of Defence scheme
The scheme covers people whose exposure to asbestos occurred in the United Kingdom and was not as a result of their work as an employee. For example:
- you came into contact with asbestos from a relative, eg, by washing their clothes
- you were exposed to asbestos in the environment, eg you lived near a factory using asbestos
- your exposure to asbestos was while you were self-employed.
How to claim
You should make a claim as soon as possible. Claims must be received within 12 months of your date of diagnosis. You should submit medical evidence with your claim showing that you are suffering from diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos. Your lung cancer nurse may be able to supply this. No further medical examination will be offered.
If the sufferer has died, their dependants may be able to claim. The claim form must be received within 12 months of the date of death.
Further Information
For further information or to request a claim form, PWC1, phone or write to the Barrow Industrial Injuries Benefit Centre.
PWC Team
Jobcentre Plus
Barrow IIDB Centre
Pittman Way
PRESTON
PR11 2AB
Telephone: 0800 279 2322
