Mick Knighton

Mesothelioma

Research Fund

The Department of Health Minister Rosie Winterton chose the Action Mesothelioma event in Newcastle to announce the National Mesothelioma Framework.

Health Minister, Rosie Winterton took the opportunity to announce the publication of the National Mesothelioma Framework at the Newcastle/ Gateshead event organised by the MKMRF. Her message was positive and the improvements that have taken place since the Mesothelioma Charter were noted. Although she stressed there is still a lot of work to do to ensure the recommendations are implemented by healthcare providers

Among the guests were the Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Maureen Goldsworthy and Consort, Councillor Paul Foy, and Dave Anderson MP. Regional secretaries of the TUC, Kevin Rowan and GMB, Tom Brennan. supported the day as did CWU and Unison. Most importantly victims, widows and their families braved the weather in support of the campaign.

The Health Minister spoke to many people affected by mesothelioma, patients and families alike and left with a better understanding of the disease and the threat posed by the thousands of tonnes of asbestos still in buildings today.

A reception took place afterwards in the Crofton Mess at HMS Calliope where guest were met by Commander Chris Scribbons and Lieutenant Commander Charlie Watson. A specially produced video about mesothelioma was shown to a hushed audience in which mesothelioma sufferers warn of the dangers construction workers face today in buildings contaminated with asbestos. To view the film via youtube, click the link.

Thank you to Thompsons Solicitors, Browell Smith& Co and UNISON for sponsoring the event Thanks also go to i-two-photographs, Baps Caterers, Millennium Balloons and HMS Calliope.