If you, or a member of your family, has been diagnosed with an industrial disease, such as mesothelioma, our solicitors are experts in seeking compensation on your behalf. We are here to advise and support you and your family throughout the industrial disease claims process and beyond.
Our team of legal experts have a wealth of experience and expertise across a wide range of industrial disease cases and are considered leaders in the field.
Asbestos-related compensation claims: including asbestosis and pleural thickening claims, both lung conditions caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, commonly found in construction, shipbuilding, and insulation industries.
Mesothelioma compensation claims: A form of cancer caused by breathing in asbestos dust. The average time for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos dust is around 40 years, but it can develop after 10 years from the initial exposure.
Silicosis claims: A lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, common in industries such sandblasting, stone masonry, construction, demolition, ceramics, and glass making. Prolonged exposure can cause inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and an increased risk of lung infections.
Workplace stress claims: severe stress can have a significant impact on both your mental and physical health, and your employer has a duty of care to consider the effect of stress in the workplace.
Industrial deafness claims: also known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), exposure to excessive or unsafe levels of noise at work without adequate protection can cause temporary or permanent damage to hearing, tinnitus or acoustic shock
Why choose us for your industrial disease claim?
Our roots are deeply ingrained in this field, having initially established ourselves as a specialist occupational disease firm and growing into an award-winning, multi-service provider. One of our greatest strengths lies in the access to archives of past cases spanning over 40 years. By reaching out to them for a statement in support of your claim, we can expedite the settlement of your claim, ensuring a quicker resolution to your case.
Our team comprises highly acclaimed industrial disease solicitors:
Led by Jordan Bell, a Principal Lawyer accredited by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) as a specialist in asbestos claims and occupational diseases and recognised in Chambers and Partners.
Managing Director and Principal Lawyer, Madelene Holdsworth, also holds accreditations as an Asbestos Specialist and an Occupational Disease Specialist through APIL. She has been consistently recognised in prestigious legal guides, as well as a nomination for 'Lawyer of the Year' in the Modern Law Awards 2020.
Pauline Chandler is a leading individual in the 2023 Legal 500 rankings, and has made significant contributions to industrial claims, leading on cases that have changed the law for asbestos victims which are now frequently relied on and referred to.
Our dedicated team offers the convenience of home visits for those who have developed asbestos-related conditions and other serious industrial diseases, including occupational cancers and life-limiting respiratory illnesses. We understand the importance of providing support during challenging times, and our dedicated team will visit you at a time that is convenient for you. We can often arrange a visit within just a few days of your initial inquiry.
We are proud to partner with numerous asbestos charities, organisations and support groups across the UK and undergo fundraising efforts throughout the year to help support victims, and families, living with an asbestos-related illness.
Being told he only had one year to live was harrowing, but Sam Ingram is still living his life as best as he can with a Mesothelioma diagnosis. Here Sam shares his story, showing how he lives with the disease and how he remains positive.
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We would highly recommend Slater and Gordon solicitors especially Pauline Chandler and her team. After my husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma Pauline and her team took over his claim for compensation.
They dealt with us with compassion and empathy at a very difficult time. Nothing was too much trouble and any emails or phone calls were dealt with promptly, from start to finish they kept us informed. The outcome was beyond our expectations and was proof of the hard work that had been put in.
Client testimonial (for Pauline Chandler)
I would highly recommend Slater & Gordon Lawyers and especially John Browne. My Dad become ill with mesothelioma in 2020 and sadly died in September 2020. This case was a complicated one and John dealt with the various problems with speed and efficiency, explaining everything to me in detail. I shall always remember his kindness and empathy and the way he guided me through that terrible time with such compassion resulting in a substantial settlement for my Mum.
Client testimonial (for John Browne)
Contact one of our industrial disease experts today
Essential information for industrial disease claims
Industrial disease and illness claims are a specialised area of law, so it is crucial to have a solicitor with expert knowledge to ensure a successful claim. Our skilled solicitors are here to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process, and we have a reputation for excellence and have achieved numerous accolades in the legal industry for our work on behalf of individuals and families affected by workplace illnesses.
If you’re suffering from an industrial disease, speak to our experts today on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online for industry-leading legal support.
Is there a time limit for filing an industrial disease claim?
You have three years to make a claim, starting from either the date of your diagnosis or the date when you became or could be reasonably expected to have become aware that your symptoms are linked to your employment. This is called your “limitation period”.
It can take time to thoroughly investigate a claim for an industrial disease, which means that you should always contact one of our specialist solicitors as soon as possible.
What compensation can I receive from an industrial disease claim?
As each industrial illness claim is unique and will vary in severity, we can’t guarantee a set amount. In most cases, the more severe the illness, the more compensation can be claimed. As experts in this area of law, we’ll ensure you get the maximum amount for your claim.
What is the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)?
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit designed to support those who have experienced disabilities due to employer negligence. This benefit is not dependent on previous contributions and is available to eligible employees or those participating in an approved employment training program at the time of the injury.
Can I make a claim on behalf of a deceased family member?
If your loved one has died from a workplace illness, it may be possible to make a claim against their employer. The timeframe for doing so could differ from the three-year limitation period, so we would strongly advise you to contact one of our lawyers, as soon as possible as we will be able to advise you in relation to your specific date of knowledge and limitation period.
I highly recommend Jordan Bell and his team. They dealt with our claim for mesothelioma compensation with expertise and care.
Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
At a time when my emotions were high and my future seemed uncertain I contacted Jordan Bell at Slater & Gordon regarding my claim against a previous employer for health problems due to asbestos exposure. The future looked bleak. However Jordan handled my claim with the utmost professionalism.
Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
I contacted S&G after my lung mesothelioma industrial disease was diagnosed. All dealings were professional with a client focus.
Client testimonial for Natasha Orr
We are an award winning law firm and have a dedicated team of industrial disease solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of asbestos claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our industrial disease experts today
Frequently asked questions about industrial disease claims
What is an industrial disease?
Industrial disease refers to a health condition or illness that arises due to exposure to hazards or risks in the workplace. It is typically associated with specific industries or occupations where workers are exposed to certain substances, processes, or working conditions that can have detrimental effects on health over time. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, your employer has a duty of care to you as an employee and must protect you from any health risks in the workplace.
Am I eligible to make an industrial disease claim?
To be eligible to make an industrial disease claim, you will need to be able to prove that your employer breached their duty of care to you and subsequently caused your illness. We can help you collect the evidence that you will need, including investigation your previous employer and arranging an independent medical examination.
If you believe your illness was caused by your employer’s negligence, get in touch with our specialist industrial disease solicitors today on 0330 041 5869 or online to find out how we can help you.
Can I claim if my employer is no longer in business?
Even if the company that caused your industrial disease is no longer trading, you can still make an industrial disease claim. We will research and find which insurers provided employers' liability insurance to the company at the time you worked there and will deal with the insurance company directly.
Will I need to go to court for my industrial disease claim?
The vast majority of industrial disease claims are settled long before it gets to courts as it is in the interest of both parties to settle the matter quickly to avoid additional time and costs. In rare cases, a claim may proceed to the court; if this does happen, your solicitor will be on hand to support and advise you at each step.
How long does it take to resolve an industrial disease claim?
The length of an industrial disease claim can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the complexity of the claim, availability of evidence, and the cooperation of those involved. Some claims can take between 12-18 months, whilst others can take several years to reach a settlement. Our team will keep you updated as your claim progresses. No matter the situation, we will be by your side, working tirelessly to ensure you get the medical treatment and compensation you deserve.