World Asthma Day Held On 5 May

National law firm Irwin Mitchell has announced a new three-year partnership with Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation (BLF).

This latest move aims to boost the support services available to people living with lung disease by helping with the running of a network of 150 volunteer-led support groups around the UK.

As World Asthma Day approaches, Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation are keen to raise awareness of these groups, which provide hope, help and companionship to more than 2,250 people affected by all forms of lung disease, as well as those who care for them. Currently held virtually, the groups regularly benefit from guest speakers.

Legal experts at Irwin Mitchell support people affected by lung conditions either through workplace illness or illness-related injury.  The firm is also set to help towards other BLF activities, including a Volunteer Conference aiming to bring together the group support leaders to celebrate their achievements, recognise their contributions and provide further training and networking opportunities.

Expert Opinion

“Sadly through our work, we often see the terrible consequences respiratory illnesses, such as silicosis and asthma, can have on people and their families.

We’re proud to be partnering Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation to raise awareness of the symptoms of respiratory illnesses and of the need for businesses to uphold health and safety laws.”
David Johnston-Keay - Partner

Expert Opinion

“It’s vital that people with respiratory illness don’t feel they have to suffer in silence. Help and support, which can make a real difference to people’s lives, is available.” Jatinder Paul - Partner

Sarah Woolnough, the Chief Executive of Asthma UK and the BLF, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Irwin Mitchell, and the timing couldn’t be better as some of our support groups prepare for the possible return of face-to-face meetings.

“For people with lung disease, the pandemic has been a particularly worrying and isolating time, with many forced to shield for months on end.  Throughout this time, the BLF support groups and the volunteers who run them, have continued to be more than just a support network, but a lifeline.”

One in five people in the UK will develop a lung condition throughout their lifetime, and last year the BLF’s Helpline alone answered 30,000 calls.

Irwin Mitchell joins Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation’s network of Living Well Alliance members, who have all donated to the charity and are working in partnership to help improve the lives of people living with lung disease.

World Asthma Day is held on 5 May.