RWK Goodman marks ‘Action Mesothelioma Day’ with a ceremony in Swindon
Our specialist Industrial Diseases team is hosting a ceremony in Swindon on Friday, 7 July to mark Action Mesothelioma Day. This annual event commemorates those who have lost their lives to mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer, supports those who are living with mesothelioma and raises awareness.
Robert Buckland QC, MP for Swindon South, Justin Tomlinson, MP for Swindon North, Councillor Maureen Penny, Mayor of Swindon, representatives from Prospect Hospice and other local charities, the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, the Coroner’s office and the local Trades Union Council are among those expected to attend the ceremony in the Mesothelioma Memorial Garden in Queen’s Park, starting at 11am.
The ceremony has been organised by our dedicated Industrial Diseases team to raise awareness of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.
Helen Childs, solicitor and head of the team, said: “The incidence of mesothelioma continues to rise with around 2,500 people diagnosed in the UK last year. This figure is expected to increase until at least 2020, so sadly many more families will continue to be affected. Unfortunately, Swindon – with its proud industrial heritage and links to the railway industry – continues to pay a heavy price for the historic use of asbestos. We want people to know that there is support available and they don’t have to battle this terrible illness on their own.”
The team hosts free weekly drop-in legal clinics for anyone affected by asbestos-related illnesses. Drop-in sessions take place at the firm’s offices at 34 Regent Circus, Swindon, SN1 1PY, every Thursday from 10am until 4pm. There is no need to book an appointment, just drop in.
Helen continued: “We are also planning regular support group meetings for those affected by asbestos-related illnesses and their families. Research has shown that people cope better when they have the support of others who have similar experiences and can guide and help one another at each step of the journey. For most people, a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness comes as a bolt out of the blue. We see there is a real need for a support group of this kind and are looking forward to helping it develop over the months and years ahead.”
The ceremony will include the decorating of a memorial tree. White doves will be released and guests will be invited to say a few words. This will be followed by refreshments and the chance for families to meet each other and our team of specialist lawyers.