Mesothelioma Compensation and PIP
Mesothelioma compensation can help patients and families pay for the cost of treatment and other expenses. Compensation can also provide financial security in the event that a person dies.
A reputable mesothelioma lawyer has a large database of asbestos-producing companies and can identify the responsible companies based upon evidence like work history, diagnosis and exposure sites. Compensation can be obtained through trust funds and settlements, lawsuits, or settlements.
Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme
DMPS is a program which compensates those suffering from mesothelioma that is diffuse. It is designed to pay people who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace, either negligently, or in violation of the statutory obligations, and who are unable to bring a claim against the employer or their Employers Insurance for Liability.
Patients diagnosed with the asbestos-related disease are able to apply for a lump sum payment in accordance with their age at the time they were diagnosed. The current DMPS scheme was launched on July 25, 2012 and is administered by Gallagher Bassett, but as of 1 April 2018 the scheme will be managed by TopMark Claims Management Ltd.
The DMPS scheme pays anyone who is a recipient of the Industrial Injuries Disablement benefit, or is the dependent of a person who has died due to an asbestos-related illness. This is also the case for those who aren't qualified for a payout for mesothelioma as outlined in the Pneumoconiosis Act of 2008 or the Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme. If you are a dependent of a mesothelioma victim who has passed away you must submit your application within 12 months after their death.
There are also a number of exemptions to the eligibility requirements for DMPS. These include those who came into contact with asbestos on a second basis like washing their husbands' work clothes, environmental exposure or those who didn't know the way they came into contact with asbestos. The DMPS scheme will compensate these people however it is essential to first consult a mesothelioma solicitor to see if they could file a civil lawsuit against their former employers or their insurers.
DMPS will deduct from your compensation any other state benefits that you are entitled to. DMPS money will be added to your civil case's compensation. This is because a mesothelioma lawyer can help you to get the maximum compensation possible in your particular case. The DMPS website suggests that you can apply for an DMPS payment yourself, but it is recommended to do this with the assistance of a specialist mesothelioma solicitor.
Industrial Injuries Disability Benefit (IIDB).
This is a weekly benefit for those who have been disabled due to an accident or disease at work (but not by self-employment). IIDB is an "no fault" scheme, which means that claimants don't have to show negligence in court. The Department for Work and Pensions assesses claims to determine if they are eligible.
Depending on the level of your disability, you could be compensated for the duration of your disability or a set period. A doctor will determine the amount of disability, and will only consider the extent of the disability that is caused by an injury or illness that is related to work. Pre-existing conditions will not be considered, but doctors can reassess if they become worse.
IIDB is a not-means-tested and tax free benefit. It can be paid in addition to other incapacity benefits like Attendance Allowance or Exceptionally Serious Disability Allowance. It is also a way to top up the lump sum amount that was received as compensation for an injury or illness like mesothelioma.
If you've been diagnosed with a mesothelioma, asbestos-related pleural plaques, or any other disease, it is worth making contact with the Welfare Rights team at your local Citizens Advice bureau to see whether you qualify for any benefits. If you are considering making a claim it is crucial to get specialist welfare rights advice. Many people find the process of claiming difficult. You can locate an advisor for welfare rights in your area by using the AdviceLocal postcode searcher.
Claimants and their agents should be aware of scammers who try to trick people into handing personal information to them via text messages or emails. The government will never ask for your personal information through email or text messages.
Diffuse Mesothelioma lump sum Payment (DMLP).
The Diffuse Mesothelioma Compensation Scheme (DMPS), is a compensation program that offers lump sums of money to patients with mesothelioma diffuse. It was created in 2014 to replace a similar scheme that was put up in 2008
The DMPS is funded by an annual levy that insurance companies pay for employers the liability insurance. The system is based on demand, and the levy is adjusted annually to reflect any changes in the number or applicants. The tax is collected by Tracing Services Ltd and distributed to successful claimants.
Diffuse mesothelioma is one type of asbestos-related cancer that affects the lung. It is a fatal condition that usually has a poor prognosis. The DMPS scheme is designed to help those who are diagnosed with this asbestos cancer as soon as possible. It also aids family members of someone who has died from mesothelioma, and offers financial support to the family members.
Under the DMPS, people who have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace will be awarded an unspecified amount. It can be used to cover living costs and to help pay for the cost of treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery. The amount of the DMPS lump sum depends on the person's age at the time they are 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 years old or over.
When it was first launched in 2004, the DMPS was a popular choice for mesothelioma victims as a way to fill in a gap in compensation. mesothelioma compensation payouts , it is time to inquire if it is doing enough for those diagnosed with asbestos-related cancers to receive the compensation they deserve.
This is particularly relevant to other asbestos-related illnesses, such as lung cancer. Presently, those suffering from these conditions who know where they were exposed to asbestos, but the employer has since gone out of business and whose insurers are not able to be located are not able to pursue an action for compensation in the civil court.
This isn't fair and something needs to be done to change this. I have recently advised an individual who was diagnosed with 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 eligible to apply for an DMPS payment of PS18,675. However, she is not qualified for any additional compensation from her estate.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
If you're suffering from mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for an PIP payment. This program is designed to help you pay for the extra costs associated with having a chronic disability or illness. It also aids those who require care on a daily basis to be able to live independently. This is a benefit that is not tested for means that is paid to those who are or older. The amount you receive is determined by your assessment result which is based on the severity of your illness and your requirements. You can get more information about PIP and how to apply from the DWP website. If you're unsure how to fill in your form, you can seek help from a local Citizens Advice group or an MS benefits adviser.
It is necessary to submit your application for PIP to the DWP together with two proofs (a passport, UK Driving Licence, council tax bill, or the housing association's tenancy contract) of your identity. You will then be invited for a PIP assessment. The assessment could take up to an hour and may be conducted at your home or in a center. It's worth bringing a friend or family member to provide moral support, and it's a good idea bring along your PIP claim form, medical evidence and the DWP's "How your disability affects you" questionnaire.
During the PIP assessment an independent healthcare professional asks you questions regarding your medical condition and the amount of assistance and care you require to complete certain tasks. You will be asked to take two tests - one on your daily living and the other on mobility and you will be awarded points for each activity. You will be awarded a total four or more points in order to qualify for PIP.
If you are not happy with the outcome of your PIP assessment, you can ask for an official reconsideration by writing an email to the DWP. This is the first step before you are able to appeal to the Appeals Service. However, it is important to seek out advice prior to deciding whether you want to contest your PIP assessment decision, because the outcome could be difficult to predict.