Diagnosed With Mesothelioma? Act Immediately.
Mesothelioma is a cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos fibres. It affects the mesothelium — the lining surrounding the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or more rarely the heart. It typically presents 20 to 50 years after the original asbestos exposure, meaning many people diagnosed today were exposed in Scottish shipyards, construction sites, power stations, schools and factories decades ago.
Scotland has historically had some of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world, reflecting the country’s heavy industrial heritage — particularly Clydeside shipbuilding, insulation contracting and the construction industry. Scottish Claims Helpline handles mesothelioma claims with the urgency they demand, on a no win no fee basis.
How Much Could You Receive?
Mesothelioma attracts the highest compensation of any asbestos-related condition:
| Element | Typical Award |
|---|
| General damages (pain and suffering) | £80,040 - £152,210 |
| Lost earnings and pension | Varies — can be substantial |
| Care and assistance costs | Varies — professional and family |
| Medical treatment and travel | Full reimbursement |
General damages based on Judicial College Guidelines. Total settlements frequently exceed £200,000.
That’s not all. In addition to civil compensation, Scottish mesothelioma patients may also be entitled to the government’s Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) — a statutory lump sum for those unable to trace an employer or insurer — and to Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) from the DWP. A separate bereavement and dependency claim can be brought by the family under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011.
Who Can Claim?
Any person diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure can claim, whether the exposure was occupational or through secondary contact (such as washing contaminated work clothing). Claims can be brought against employers who have ceased trading — their employers’ liability insurers remain liable. Family members can claim after a mesothelioma death for solatium, loss of support and funeral expenses under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011.
Mesothelioma Claims — Frequently Asked Questions
General damages under the Judicial College Guidelines range from £80,040 to £152,210 depending on the period of suffering and symptom severity. Special damages for lost earnings, care costs, medical treatment and expenses are paid on top. Total settlements including special damages frequently exceed £200,000.
Yes. Employers were legally required to hold employers’ liability insurance under the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. Those policies can be traced through the ELTO database and claimed against today, even if the employer ceased trading decades ago.
3 years from the date of diagnosis under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973. Given the serious prognosis, it is essential to seek legal advice immediately upon diagnosis. Scottish courts can fast-track mesothelioma cases to ensure resolution while the pursuer is alive.
The DMPS is a government compensation scheme for mesothelioma sufferers who cannot trace their employer or their employer’s insurer. It provides a lump sum payment based on age at diagnosis. This is separate from and in addition to any civil compensation claim. Our solicitors can advise on eligibility and assist with the application.
Yes. Family members can bring a claim on behalf of the deceased’s estate and may also claim in their own right under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011 for solatium (grief and distress) and loss of support. The time limit is 3 years from the date of death.
Mesothelioma has a poor prognosis and progression can be rapid. A statement from the sufferer is essential evidence and must be taken while they are well enough to participate. Scottish courts can fast-track these cases. Contact us immediately following diagnosis — do not wait.
How Do I Start My Claim?
It takes 2 minutes. Fill in our short form and one of our specialist Scottish solicitors will call you back at a time that suits. They will listen to what happened, tell you straight away if you have a claim, and explain exactly how much you could receive — all completely free and with no obligation. If you decide to go ahead, everything is handled for you on a no win no fee basis from start to finish. You pay nothing unless you win.
About this page: Written by David Gildea, Scottish Claims Helpline. Reviewed by a qualified Scottish solicitor specialising in asbestos disease litigation. Last reviewed February 2026. Scottish Claims Helpline is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (
FRN 830381).