Asbestosis fund blamed for lack of council houses

Local government leaders who take steps to protect against liability for asbestosis claims in respect of council housing could be seen to be prudent, but short-sightedness from some councillors might mean that settlement of future asbestos compensation claims could be compromised.

In October 2008 a councillor made calls for Preston Council's leaders to access funds put aside for asbestos "liabilities" in a bid to alleviate the waiting time for some of the 3,000 families who were on the list for publicly funded accommodation at the time.

When the council passed housing stock to the Community Gateway Association in 2005, £1.4m was set aside as a fund available if tenants contracted asbestosis and asbestos-related diseases as a result of living in the homes.

However, arguments erupted over the prudence of retaining such a fund. At least two councillors went on record saying that the need for new social housing was too great to keep such a large sum of money reserved for an uncertain eventuality.

However, another councillor voiced the opinion that it was well known that some housing in the area contained asbestos and that if people contracted asbestosis in the future they would be well advised to consider the housing as a contributing factor in their illness. This could then render the council liable in certain circumstances.

A Preston Council spokesperson commented that if funds tied to asbestos were to be released, thorough research would be required into the likelihood of future compensation claims and a full risk assessment exercise would need to be undertaken.

Asbestosis and compensation claims with YouClaim
If you or a member of your family have been diagnosed with asbestosis as a result of living or working in housing owned by a local council, you may be able to make an asbestos compensation claim. YouClaim have been handling the claims of asbestosis victims for many years and we understand how distressing the disease can be. Our friendly and knowledgeable advisors are waiting to talk to you about your compensation claim on our free UK helpline: 0800 10 757 95.

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