Mesothelioma Compensation and PIP
Compensation for mesothelioma could aid patients family members and other patients pay for medical costs and other expenses. Compensation can also provide financial security in the event that a person dies.
A good mesothelioma lawyer has an extensive database of asbestos-producing companies and can locate responsible companies using evidence such as a history of work, diagnosis, and exposure sites. Compensation can be obtained from trust funds or through lawsuits or settlements.
Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS)
DMPS is a compensation plan for patients suffering from diffuse mesothelioma. It is designed to pay those who were exposed to asbestos while at work, either negligently, or in violation of the statutory duties, and who cannot make a claim against their employer or their Employers' Liability insurance.
The age of the person diagnosed with asbestos-related disease will determine if they're qualified for a lump sum payment. The current DMPS was launched on 25 July 2012. It is administered by Gallagher Bassett. However, on April 1, 2018, TopMark Claims Management Ltd will administer the scheme.
The DMPS scheme pays those who are eligible for the Industrial Injuries Disablement benefit or is the spouse of someone who has passed away due to an asbestos-related disease. This includes those who aren't eligible for a payout of mesothelioma under the Pneumoconiosis Act of 2008 or the Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme. If you are the dependent of a mesothelioma sufferer who has passed away, you must make your application within 12 months of their death.
There are also a number of exceptions to the eligibility requirements for DMPS. This includes those who come into contact with asbestos on a second basis such as wives washing their husbands' work clothes, exposure to the environment, or those who didn't know the way they came into contact with asbestos. These people will be compensated by the DMPS scheme, but they should first consult a mesothelioma lawyer in order to determine if they have the right to pursue a civil case against their former employers or insurance companies.
It is important to note that DMPS will subtract any other state benefits you receive from your compensation. However, any money you pay through DMPS will be added to the total amount you receive in a civil case. A mesothelioma lawyer can help you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your case. The DMPS website says that you can apply for an DMPS Payment, however it's recommended that you seek out a mesothelioma specialist lawyer.
Industrial Injuries Disability Benefit (IIDB).
This is a weekly allowance paid for people who are disabled because of an accident at work, or due to certain illnesses that are related to their job (but not self-employment). IIDB is a "no fault" scheme which means that those who claim do not have to show negligence in the courtroom. Instead, the Department for Work and Pensions will review claims to determine if they qualify.
Depending on your level of disability, you may be compensated for lifetime or for a predetermined time. A doctor will determine the amount of disability, and will only consider the degree that it is caused by an injury or illness that is related to work. Pre-existing conditions will not be taken into account, but a doctor can review your situation if it becomes more severe.
IIDB is a not-means-tested and tax-free benefit that is tax free. It can be paid in addition to other related incapacity benefits, like Attendance Allowance and Exceptionally Serious Disablement Allowance. It is also a way to top-up a lump-sum payment received as compensation for an injury or illness that was caused at work, for example mesothelioma.
If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related illness and are wondering if you are eligible for benefits, you must contact the Welfare Rights team of your local Citizens Advice bureau. If you are thinking about making a claim it is essential to seek out professional advice on welfare rights. Many people find the process of claiming complicated. 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 try to trick people into giving out personal information through text messages or emails. The government will never request 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 set up in order to pay lump sums to patients with mesothelioma diffuse. It was created in 2014 to replace a similar scheme that had been set up in 2008
The DMPS is funded by an annual levy paid by insurers to cover employers"liability insurance. It is a demand-driven system and the levy is adjusted each year to reflect any increase or decrease in the number of applicants. The levy is collected by Tracing Services Ltd and distributed to successful claimants.
A form of asbestos cancer that affects the lungs is known as diffuse mesothelioma. It is a debilitating disease with a low chance of recovery. The DMPS scheme was designed to help those diagnosed with asbestos cancer as quickly as possible. It also provides financial support to the family members of a deceased mesothelioma patient.
The DMPS provides lump sum payments to those who were exposed to asbestos in their work. This is used to cover living costs and assist with the cost of treatments like chemotherapy and surgery. The DMPS lump-sum amount is determined by the age of a person who is diagnosed with mesothelioma. The amount varies from PS94,750 for those aged 37 and less to PS14,722 in the case of those who are 77 or over.
DMPS was initially welcomed by mesothelioma sufferers as a way to fill a compensation gap. However, four years on, it must be asked whether it has done enough to ensure that those who have been diagnosed with this asbestos related cancer get the compensation that they are entitled to.
This is especially the case with other types of asbestos-related diseases like lung cancer. At present, patients of these diseases who know the place they were exposed to asbestos but the employer has since been shut down and whose insurers are not able to be traced are unable to pursue an action for compensation in the civil court.
This isn't right and something needs to be done. I recently advised a mesothelioma patient who knew she was exposed to asbestos in Higham, Kent at British Uralite. Her father was employed by the company and she can recall him coming home in his dusty work clothes. She was eligible to apply for an DMPS payment of PS18,675. She does not have any further compensation from her estate.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP),
If you suffer from mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, you may be entitled to an PIP payment. This scheme is designed to assist with the additional costs of living with a long-term illness or disability. It also helps people who require care on a daily basis to live independently. It is a no-cost benefit that is available to people who are 16 or older. The amount you receive is determined by the results of your assessment which is based on the severity of your illness as well as your requirements. Find out more about PIP and how to apply from the DWP website. If you're unsure how to fill in your form, you can get help from an area Citizens Advice group or an MS benefits adviser.
The first step to apply for PIP is to submit your application to the DWP with your medical proof and two ID documents (a passport, UK driving licence, council tax bill or housing association tenancy agreements). You will then be invited to take a PIP assessment. This assessment can take up to an hour and may be completed at the home or in a centre. It's worth bringing a friend or family member to provide moral support, and it's a good idea bring your PIP claim form, medical evidence and the DWP's "How your disability affects you" questionnaire.
During the PIP assessment, a qualified healthcare professional asks you questions about your health condition and how much assistance and care you need to accomplish certain tasks. You will be asked to complete two tests - one on your daily living and the other one on mobility and you will be awarded points for each task. You must score at least four points to qualify for the PIP.
If compensation mesothelioma satisfied with the outcome of your PIP assessment If you are unhappy with the decision, you can request a mandatory reconsideration by sending a letter to the DWP. This is the first thing you need to do before you can appeal. However, it is essential to seek out advice prior to deciding whether you want to challenge your PIP assessment decision, since the outcome could be difficult to predict.