Mesothelioma Compensation and PIP
Mesothelioma compensation can help patients and families pay for medical expenses and other expenses. Compensation can provide financial security if a patient dies.
A mesothelioma lawyer with experience has a large database of asbestos-producing companies. They can locate the responsible companies based upon evidence such as work history, diagnosis and exposure sites. Compensation may come from trust funds, lawsuits or settlements.
Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS)
DMPS is a compensation program for diffuse mesothelioma patients. It was designed to pay people who, either negligently or in violation of statutory obligation, were exposed to asbestos in the workplace and cannot bring a claim against their employer or the Employers' Liability insurer.
People who are who are diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions can apply for a lump sum, depending on their age when they were diagnosed. The current DMPS scheme was introduced on July 25, 2012 and is administered by Gallagher Bassett, but as from April 1, 2018 it will be administered by TopMark Claims Management Ltd.
The DMPS scheme will pay those who are eligible for the Industrial Injuries Disablement benefit or is the dependent of a person who has died due to an asbestos-related disease. This is also the case for those who aren't eligible for a payment of mesothelioma under either the Pneumoconiosis Act of 2008 or the Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme. If you are the dependent of a mesothelioma sufferer, you must submit your application within a 12 month of the date of death.
There are some exceptions to the eligibility criteria for DMPS. There are also a number of exemptions to the DMPS eligibility criteria. These include those who were exposed to asbestos in a second manner, like wives washing their husbands' clothes at work, or exposure to environmental factors. The DMPS scheme will pay these people however it is crucial to first speak with an expert mesothelioma lawyer to determine whether they are able to pursue a civil claim against their former employers and/or their insurance companies.
It is important to note that DMPS will deduct any other state benefits you receive from your compensation. DMPS money will be added to your civil case's compensation. This is because a mesothelioma lawyer will assist you in obtaining the maximum amount of compensation in your particular case. The DMPS website suggests that you could apply for an DMPS payment yourself, but it is recommended to do this with the help of a specialist mesothelioma attorney.
Industrial Injuries Disability Benefit (IIDB).
This is a weekly payment for people who have been disabled by an accident or disease at work (but not by self-employment). IIDB is an "no fault" scheme which means that those who claim do not have to prove their negligence in the court. Instead the Department for Work and Pensions will evaluate claims to determine whether they qualify.
Depending on the severity of your disability, you may be paid either for lifetime or for a predetermined time. A doctor will determine the percentage of disability, and will only consider the extent of the disability that is caused by an injury or illness at work. Pre-existing medical conditions are not taken into consideration, however, doctors may revisit the assessment if they get worse.
The IIDB is not a benefit that is tested for means and is tax-free. It is available in addition to other incapacity benefits, like Attendance Allowance or Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance. It can also be used to supplement a lump sum payment that was made as compensation for a work-related injury or disease such as mesothelioma.
If you have been diagnosed with a mesothelioma, asbestos-related pleural plaques or another disease, it is worth making contact with the Welfare Rights team at your local Citizens Advice bureau to see if you qualify for any benefits. If you're thinking of applying for benefits, it is important to get professional advice on welfare rights. Many people find the process of claiming complicated. The AdviceLocal postcode finder can assist you locate an adviser for welfare rights in your area.
Claimants and their agents need be aware of scammers that attempt to trick people into giving out personal details via text messages or email. The government will never ask for your personal information via email or text messages.
Diffuse Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payment (DMLP)
The Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) is a compensation scheme set up to pay lump sums to those suffering from diffuse mesothelioma. It was launched in 2014 and was replaced by a similar scheme set up in 2008.
The DMPS is funded by an annual levy that insurers pay for employers' liability insurance. It is a demand-led system and the levy is adjusted annually to reflect any increase or decrease in the number of applicants. The levies are collected by Tracing Services Ltd and distributed to successful claimants.
Diffuse mesothelioma is a type of asbestos cancer that affects the lung. It is a debilitating disease with a bad outlook. The DMPS scheme is designed to assist those who are diagnosed with this asbestos-related cancer as soon as they can. It also provides financial support to the family of mesothelioma patients who have passed away.
Under the DMPS, people who have been exposed to asbestos at work will be paid a lump sum. The lump sum can be used to cover living expenses and to pay for procedures like chemotherapy and surgeries. The amount of the DMPS lump sum is dependent on the person's age at the time they are diagnosed with mesothelioma. The amount varies from PS94.750 for those who are younger than 37 years of age to PS14.722 for those who are over 77.
When it was first launched in the year 2000, the DMPS was a popular choice for mesothelioma patients as a means of filling a gap in compensation. But, four years later, 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 applicable to other asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer. Presently, those suffering from 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 a civil compensation claim.
This is unfair and something needs to change. I recently consulted with a mesothelioma patient who knew she had been exposed to asbestos in Higham, Kent at British Uralite. Her father was a worker for the company, and he returned home in his dusty 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)
If you're suffering from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you could be eligible for an PIP payment. This program is designed to help with the additional expenses associated with living with a chronic disability or illness. It also assists those who require care on a daily basis to live independently. This is a non-means-tested benefit that is paid to those who are 16 years old or older. The amount you receive is determined by your assessment results that takes into consideration the severity of your illness and your requirements. You can get more information about PIP and how to apply via the DWP website. If you're not sure how to fill out your application, you can ask for assistance from your local Citizens Advice Group or an MS Benefits advisor.
You must send your application for PIP to the DWP along with two proofs (a passport, UK Driving Licence, council tax bill or a housing association tenancy agreement) of your identity. Then, you will be referred to a PIP assessment. The assessment could take up to an hour, and could be completed at your home or in a center. You may want to bring a family member or an acquaintance to offer moral support. Also, it is recommended to bring your PIP claim and medical proof along with the DWP questionnaire "How your disability impacts your life".
During the PIP assessment, a qualified healthcare professional will ask you questions about your medical condition and the amount of assistance and care you need to perform certain tasks. You will be asked two tests, one on your daily living and one on mobility. You will earn points for each test. You must score at least four points to be eligible for the PIP.
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your PIP assessment you can request a mandatory review by sending an email to the DWP. mesothelioma compensation for family members is the first step you must do before you can appeal. It is important to get advice before challenging your PIP assessment, since the outcome can be unpredictable.