Local Law firms Sponsor June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund Event

A free event will be taking place on Friday 3 July at Weetwood Hall Hotel, Leeds to help raise awareness of mesothelioma, an incurable form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. 

Each year victim support organisations join together to host events on Action Mesothelioma Day to raise awareness of this asbestos-related disease.

The event will take place from 10am to 4pm and it will allow mesothelioma sufferers, their families and health and social care professionals to come together and meet researchers investigating mesothelioma cures and treatments. The day will have an informal, round table style allowing attendees the opportunity to hear about research topics first hand and to ask questions. 

Experts will include representatives from research projects currently supported by the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund.  Since its inception in 1997, the fund has raised an astounding £1.5million and has used it to build a comprehensive portfolio of research studies.

Local support groups and professionals from clinical and legal backgrounds will also be on hand to talk to people and provide information and advice.

The Fund was set up in memory of June Hancock who grew up and went to school in the Armley area of Leeds. She was diagnosed with the fatal asbestos cancer mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos dust released from the JW Roberts factory.

Nicola Handley, a specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, one of the three law firms supporting the event, said: “Over 2,500 people are dying from mesothelioma every year in the UK due to the negligence of their employers decades ago. Many of the people we represent were exposed to the deadly substance and were never warned of the risks or provided with any protective equipment.

“Action Mesothelioma Day is a time to reflect on those who have lost their lives to the disease and to support those recently diagnosed. Of course, it is also a time to push for further research into the disease and possible cures by raising funds for research in relation to treatment and ensuring that clients have access to justice.”

Dr Kate Hill, one of the Trustees of the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund said: “Our Meet the Researchers event on Action Mesothelioma Day is always very well attended and provides a great opportunity for those affected by mesothelioma to meet with expert researchers, clinicians and solicitors.

“The event also provides an amazing opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and the need for employers in all industries to protect workers from the risks associated with asbestos exposure.”