Mesothelioma Compensation and PIP

Compensation for mesothelioma may help patients as well as their families and friends pay for medical expenses and other expenses. Compensation also offers financial security in the case of a patient's death.

A good mesothelioma attorney has extensive databases of asbestos-producing firms and can identify the responsible companies based on information such as the history of work, diagnosis and exposure sites. Compensation can be obtained from trust funds, lawsuits or settlements.

Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS)

DMPS is a compensation plan for patients suffering from diffuse mesothelioma. It was designed to pay people who, either negligently or in breach of statutory obligation, were exposed to asbestos at work and are not able to file a claim against their employer or the employer's Employers' Liability insurer.

The age of the person diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness will determine if they are qualified for a lump sum payment. The current DMPS scheme was launched on 25 July 2012 and is administered by Gallagher Bassett, but as beginning on April 1, 2018, it will be administrated by TopMark Claims Management Ltd.

The DMPS scheme will pay any person who is receiving Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, or is the spouse of someone who has passed away as a result of an asbestos-related condition and has not been qualified for a mesothelioma compensation payout under the Pneumoconiosis Act or the 2008 Diffuse Mesothelioma Compensation Scheme. If you are the dependent of a mesothelioma sufferer who has died, you must make your application within 12 months after their death.

There are a few exceptions to the eligibility criteria for DMPS. There are also a number of exceptions to the eligibility requirements for DMPS. This includes those who were exposed to asbestos in a second way, for example, wives washing their husbands' clothing at work, or environmental exposure. The DMPS scheme will pay these people however it is essential to first consult an attorney for mesothelioma to determine whether they can file a civil lawsuit against their former employers and/or their insurers.

DMPS will deduct from your payment any other state benefits that you are entitled to. However, any money you pay to you under DMPS will be added to the total amount you receive in a civil case. A mesothelioma attorney can help you receive the maximum amount of claiming compensation for mesothelioma for your case. The DMPS website states that you can apply yourself for an DMPS payment, but it's recommended that you seek out a mesothelioma specialist lawyer.

Industrial Injuries Disability Benefit (IIDB).

This is a weekly payment for people who are disabled as a result of an accident at work or certain diseases linked to their work (but not self-employment). IIDB is a "no fault" scheme which means that those who claim are not required to prove their negligence in court. Instead the Department for Work and Pensions will evaluate claims to determine whether they are eligible.

Depending on the severity of your disability, you could be paid either for life or for a fixed time. A doctor will determine the amount of disability and will only consider the extent that it is due to an injury or illness at work. Pre-existing conditions will not be considered however, a doctor may reassess your situation if it becomes more severe.

The IIDB is not a benefit that is tested for means and is tax-free. It is available in addition to other related incapacity benefits, such as Attendance Allowance and Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance. It is also a way to increase the amount of a lump sum payment received as compensation for an injury or disease that was contracted at work, such as mesothelioma.

If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related pleural plaques, or any other disease, it's worth making contact with the Welfare Rights team at your local Citizens Advice bureau to see whether you are eligible for benefits. It is crucial to seek expert welfare rights advice if are considering submitting claims as many find the process complex. The AdviceLocal postcode finder can help you locate an adviser for welfare rights in your area.

Claimants and their representatives need be aware of scammers who attempt to fool people into providing personal details through text messages or emails. The government will never ask for your personal information via text message or email.

Diffuse Mesothelioma lump sum Payment (DMLP).

The Diffuse Mesothelioma Compensation Scheme (DMPS) is a compensation scheme that pays lump sums to patients suffering from diffuse mesothelioma. It was established in 2014 to replace a similar scheme that had been set in 2008.

The DMPS is funded by an annual levy paid by insurance companies for employers the liability insurance. The system is demand-driven, and the levy will be recalculated every year to reflect any changes in the number or applicants. The levy collected by Tracing Services Ltd is distributed to successful claimants.

Diffuse mesothelioma can be described as a form of asbestos cancer that affects the lungs. It is a terminal disease and often incurs an unfavorable prognosis. The DMPS scheme is designed to assist those who are diagnosed with this cancer as soon as they can. It also helps family members of someone who has died from mesothelioma and provides financial support to their family.

Under the DMPS individuals who have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace will be awarded an unspecified amount. The lump sum is used to cover living expenses and to help pay for procedures like chemotherapy and surgery. The amount of the DMPS lump sum depends on the age of a person when they are diagnosed with mesothelioma. The amount varies from PS94,750 for those aged 37 and under to PS14,722 for individuals who are 77 years old or over.

DMPS was initially embraced by mesothelioma patients as a solution to fill a gap. However, four years on, it must be asked whether it is doing enough to ensure that people who have been diagnosed with this asbestos-related cancer get the compensation that they deserve.

This is especially the case with other asbestos-related diseases, such as lung cancer. Presently, those suffering from these conditions who know how they were exposed to asbestos but the employer has since gone out of business and whose insurers are not able to be traced are unable to pursue a civil compensation claim.

This isn't right and something needs to be done. I have recently advised someone who had mesothelioma and knew where she was exposed to asbestos at British Uralite in Higham, Kent. Her father was employed by the company, and she recalls him coming home in his smoky work clothes. She was able to apply for a DMPS payment of PS18 675. However, she's not eligible for additional veterans compensation for mesothelioma from her estate.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

If you're suffering from mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related illness, you could be eligible for the PIP payment. This program assists with the extra expenses that are associated with living with a disability or long-term health condition. It's designed to help those who require care to live independently. This is a non-means-tested benefit that is provided to people who are or older. The amount you receive is determined by the assessment you make which is based on the severity of your condition as well as your needs. You can get more information about PIP and how to apply via the DWP website. If you're unsure how to fill out your application, ask for assistance from a local Citizens Advice Group or an MS Benefits adviser.

The first step in submitting for PIP is to send your application to DWP with your medical proof and two identification documents (a passport, UK driving licence, council tax bill or housing association tenancy agreement). You will then be invited for an PIP assessment. It could be at your home or in the centre and could last up to an hour. It is worth taking a friend or family member along for moral support and it is a good idea to bring your PIP claim form, medical evidence and the DWP's "How your disability affects your life" questionnaire.

When you take the PIP assessment, a non-biased healthcare professional will ask questions about how your health conditions affect you and the amount of help and care you require to accomplish certain tasks. You will be asked two tests, one on the daily living and the other on mobility. You will be awarded points for each test. You must score four or more points to be eligible for the PIP.

If you aren't satisfied with the decision of your PIP assessment, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration by sending an email to the DWP. This is the first step to take before you can appeal to the Appeals Service. It is essential to seek advice before challenging your PIP assessment, as the outcome could be erratic.