Mesothelioma Compensation and PIP
Mesothelioma compensation can help patients and their families pay for the cost of treatment and other expenses. Compensation can also provide financial security in the event that a patient dies.
A reputable mesothelioma lawyer will have an extensive database of asbestos-producing companies and can find responsible companies using evidence such as work history or diagnosis as well as exposure sites. Compensation can be obtained through trust funds, lawsuits or settlements.
Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS)
DMPS is a compensation program 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 in the workplace and who are unable to bring any claim against their employer or the employer's Employers' Liability insurer.
The age of the person diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease will determine whether they are eligible for a lump-sum payment. The current DMPS scheme was launched on July 25, 2012 and was administered by Gallagher Bassett, but as of 1 April 2018 it will be administered by TopMark Claims Management Ltd.
The DMPS scheme will pay anyone who receives Industrial Injuries Disablement benefit, or is the dependent of a person who died due to an asbestos-related illness. This includes those who aren't eligible for a payment of mesothelioma under the Pneumoconiosis Act of 2008 or the Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme. If you are the dependent of a mesothelioma patient who has died, you must make your application within 12 months from the date of their death.
There are also a number of exemptions to the requirements for eligibility for DMPS. There are a variety of exemptions to the eligibility requirements for DMPS. This includes those who were exposed to asbestos in a secondary way, for example, when wives washed their husbands' clothes at work, or through environmental exposure. These individuals will be compensated by the DMPS scheme however, they must first seek out a mesothelioma attorney to determine if they are eligible to pursue a civil case against their former employers or insurance companies.
DMPS will subtract from your pay any other state benefits you receive. DMPS money will be added to the civil case compensation. This is because a mesothelioma lawyer can assist you in obtaining the maximum compensation possible in your case. The DMPS website states that you are eligible to apply for the DMPS Payment, however it is recommended to consult a mesothelioma lawyer.
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)
This is a weekly payment for those who are disabled due to an accident or disease at work (but not due to self-employment). IIDB is a no-fault scheme, meaning that those who claim do not need to prove their negligence through the court system. The Department for Work and Pensions assesses claims to determine if they are eligible.
Depending on your level of disability, you could be compensated for lifetime or for a predetermined time. A doctor will assess the extent of your disability, and will consider only the degree to the extent that it is caused by the injury or illness that is related to work. Pre-existing medical conditions are not taken into consideration, however, doctors may revisit the assessment if they get worse.
IIDB is a non-means tested and tax-free benefit that is tax-free and non-means tested. It is available in addition to other incapacity benefits, such as Attendance Allowance or Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance. It can also be used to supplement the lump sum amount that was made as compensation for a work-related accident or disease such as mesothelioma.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease and you are unsure whether you're eligible to receive benefits, you should speak to the Welfare Rights team of your local Citizens Advice bureau. It is crucial to seek expert welfare rights advice if are considering submitting a claim as many people find the process complex. The AdviceLocal postcode finder can assist you locate an adviser for welfare rights in your area.
Claimants and their representatives should be aware of scammers that try to trick people into giving over personal details by text messages or emails. The government will never ask you to provide your personal information via text message or email.
Diffuse Mesothelioma lump sum Payment (DMLP).
The Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) is a compensation scheme created to pay lump sums of money to patients with mesothelioma diffuse. It was created in 2014 to replace a similar scheme that had been set in 2008.
The DMPS is funded by a levy each year that insurance companies pay for employers' liability insurance. It is a demand-led system and the levy will be recalculated each year to reflect any increase or decrease in the number of applicants. The tax is collected by Tracing Services Ltd and distributed to successful claimants.
Diffuse mesothelioma can be described as a form of asbestos-related cancer that affects the lungs. It is a fatal disease that often has a low prognosis. The DMPS scheme is designed to help those diagnosed with this asbestos cancer as soon as possible. It also provides financial support to the family members of mesothelioma patients who died.
The DMPS provides lump sum payments to those who were exposed to asbestos while at work. It can be used to cover living costs and assist with the cost of treatments such as chemotherapy and surgeries. The amount of the DMPS lump sum is dependent on a person's age when they are diagnosed with mesothelioma. The amount ranges from PS94.750 for those who are less than 37 years old to PS14.722 for those who are over 77.
When it was first launched in 2004, the DMPS was welcomed by mesothelioma victims as a way of filling a gap in compensation. But, four years later it is necessary to inquire whether it is doing enough to ensure that people who have been diagnosed with this asbestos related cancer receive the compensation they deserve.
This is particularly relevant to other asbestos-related illnesses like lung cancer. Currently, victims of these conditions who know how they were exposed to asbestos but whose employer has now gone out of business and whose insurers are not able to be identified are unable to pursue an action for compensation in the civil court.
This isn't fair and something must change. I have recently advised a woman who developed mesothelioma. She knew that she was exposed to asbestos at British Uralite in Higham, Kent. She recalled her father working for the company, and returning home in soiled work clothes. She was able apply for a DMPS payment of PS18 675. However, she's not eligible for additional compensation from her estate.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
You could be eligible for PIP payments if you suffer from mesothelioma or a different asbestos-related disease. This scheme helps with the extra costs that come from living with disabilities or a long-term health condition. It is designed to help those who require care to be able to live independently. It is a non-testing benefit and is paid to those who are or older. The amount you get is determined by your assessment which is based on the severity of your condition as well as your requirements. Find out more about PIP and how to apply from the DWP website. If veterans compensation for mesothelioma 're not sure how to fill in your application, seek help from the local Citizens Advice group or an MS benefits adviser.
The first step in submitting for PIP is to submit your application to the DWP with your medical evidence and two proofs of identity (a passport, UK driving licence, council tax bill or a housing association tenancy agreement). You will be invited to attend a PIP Assessment. The assessment can last up to an hour and can be completed at home or in a centre. You may wish to bring a family member or friend to provide moral assistance. Also, you should bring your PIP claim and medical evidence as well as the DWP questionnaire "How your disability impacts your life".
During the PIP assessment an independent healthcare professional will ask you questions regarding your health conditions and how much help and care you require to perform certain tasks. You will be asked two tests, one on the daily living and one on mobility. You will earn points for each test. You must score at least four points in order to qualify for the PIP.
If you're not happy with the decision you've been given regarding your PIP assessment you can request an official review by sending an email to the DWP. This is the first thing you need to do before you can appeal. It is essential to seek advice before challenging your PIP assessment, as the outcome can be unpredictable.