HASAG (The Hampshire Asbestos Support and Awareness Group) stands as a beacon of support and advocacy for patients affected by asbestos-related diseases, particularly mesothelioma. Alongside HASAG, as one of its panel law firms, Hugh James is dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance and support to those diagnosed with mesothelioma and their families, so that no-one would ever feel alone.
Action Mesothelioma Day, a key event in the calendar, epitomises HASAG’s mission to raise awareness of asbestos related illness, remember those lost to the disease and champion ongoing research and advocacy efforts.
HASAG was established to offer support, information, and guidance to patients diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses, and their families. With a primary focus on mesothelioma, HASAG provides a range of services aimed at improving the quality of life for patients and their families. These services include:
- Emotional and practical support: HASAG offers counselling, support groups, and home visits, providing a compassionate ear and practical advice to help families navigate the challenges of a mesothelioma diagnosis.
- Information and resources: HASAG provides comprehensive information on mesothelioma, treatment options, legal representation, and other support, empowering patients and their families with knowledge.
- Advocacy and awareness: HASAG is actively involved in raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos and advocating for better regulations and protections for workers, recently working for greater support for patients through the DWP.
Our Asbestos team has extensive experience in handling asbestos-related cases, collaborating closely with HASAG. This partnership ensures that patients and their families receive expert legal advice and representation. We support patients through:
- Compensation claims: We assists mesothelioma patients in navigating the complex legal landscape to secure the compensation they are entitled to. This includes claims against former employers and manufacturers of asbestos-containing products.
- Legal guidance: We provide clear and compassionate legal guidance, helping patients understand their rights and the steps involved in making a claim.
- Supportive partnerships: By working alongside HASAG, we ensure that legal support is seamlessly integrated with the emotional and practical support offered by the charity.
Action Mesothelioma Day: A day of remembrance and action
Action Mesothelioma Day, takes place every year on the first Friday in July and is a pivotal event for HASAG and those who support the day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness of mesothelioma, remembering those who have lost their lives to the disease, and advocating for continued research, better treatment options and prevention of the disease.
Action Mesothelioma Day focuses on:
- Public awareness campaigns: Action Mesothelioma Day features extensive campaigns aimed at educating the public about the risks of asbestos exposure and the importance of early detection of mesothelioma. These campaigns utilise various media platforms to reach a broad audience. Each year buildings across the UK are lit up blue for mesothelioma.
- Memorial services: The day includes poignant memorial services to honour and remember those who have lost their lives to mesothelioma. These services provide a space for families and friends to gather, reflect, and support one another.
- Advocacy efforts: Action Mesothelioma Day is also a time for advocacy. HASAG and other charities use the day to lobby for stricter asbestos regulations, greater awareness, asbestos removal from public buildings, and increased funding for mesothelioma research.
- Fundraising events: To support ongoing research and patient services, Action Mesothelioma Day includes various fundraising activities. This year HASAG are running two events, one in Essex and the other in Portsmouth. All funds raised go to mesothelioma research and supporting existing patients.
This year to mark the first of the two action mesothelioma days, Mary Mulhall of our London Office attend AMD in RHS Garden Hyde Hall. It was well attended with Mesothelioma UK clinical nurse specialist Sam Jayasekara presenting on asbestos, clinical trials, and all treatment options available for mesothelioma patients. Rachel Thomas, Mesothelioma Nurse Specialist from HASAG was there to provide guidance and advice to patients that attended along with bereaved family members.
The combined efforts of HASAG, Hugh James and the initiatives on Action Mesothelioma Day have made significant strides in the fight against mesothelioma. By raising awareness, providing critical support, and advocating for change, these efforts have improved the lives of many affected by this devastating disease. Moreover, they have played a crucial role in highlighting the ongoing risks of asbestos exposure, advocating for safer working conditions, and pushing for comprehensive asbestos bans.
Through our combined efforts and the annual observance of Action Mesothelioma Day, we continue to work with HASAG to raise awareness, support victims, and advocate for crucial research and policy changes. Together, we want to offer hope and a brighter future for those affected by asbestos-related diseases.
