Workers Memorial Day 2010
The deadly fibres, once used freely in industry across Tyneside, are the biggest single cause of work-related death in the UK.Thousands of people across the region have been affected and now a new organisation has been launched to support them.
The Northern Asbestos Support and Campaign Group was launched on Worker’s Memorial Day, April 28th at Wallsend Memorial Hall. Operating under the Northern Trade Union Congress (TUC), the group is the first of its kind to deliver professional support to people affected by asbestos disease across the North East.
Services include a drop in centre, a telephone helpline, expert advice on benefit entitlements, home visits and support for family members at Coroner’s inquests.
As a former shipyard worker I have known many workmates die from asbestos diseases like mesothelioma,” said chairman Michael Blench, an ex-Swan Hunter shipyard conveyor from Wallsend.
“I am well aware of the devastating impact asbestos has had on families across the region.”We hope we will provide much-needed help and advice to those affected by asbestos.
“Through our links with trade unions,health professionals and expert legal firms we are determined to make a real impact on providing services to victims of asbestos and to find ways of making our workplaces and communities safer by enforcing safeguards to prevent asbestos exposure.”
Kevin Rowan, Regional Secretary of Northern TUC added: “For the first time practical support will be available to families affected by asbestos disease across the region delivered free of charge by a professional team.
“The group will work with other interested organisations to create a focus for campaigning on health and safety and social justice issues to deal with the legacy of asbestos in the region.”
Chris Knighton, from the Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund, is supporting the new group. Her Wallsend-based charity, set up after the death of her husband Mick, raises fund for research into asbestos illnesses.
“We are delighted this group is being launched and we look forward to working closely together to provide extra services to those suffering and their families,” she said.
“There has been a need for an organisation of this kind. I wish this service had been around when my husband Mick was ill as it would have eased the burden of navigating the benefits system during such a heartbreaking time.”
The Northern Asbestos Support and Campaign Group drop in centre will be based at Wallsend People’s Centre on Frank Street. For more information contact Kevin Rowan, Northern TUC on 0191 232 3175 or 07766250074
UNISON Gateshead Local Government Branch – in conjunction with the local Trades Council and other unions and Mesothelioma Sel-help Groups are laying a wreath at the Workers Memorial Plaque in Saltwell Park, Rose Garden, Gateshead . UNISON members in attendance will be wearing the purple ribbon in remembrance.
MKMRF Patron Dave Anderson MP with members of both North and South Tyneside Mesothelioma Self-help Groups
The new plaque commemorating those who lost their lives through work
