COPD and Emphysema Claims

COPD refers to a group of lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause ongoing and often severe breathing difficulties. Industries such as coal mining, textiles and construction have long been associated with an increased risk of developing COPD. 

 

Making a COPD or emphysema claim can help to make the financial burden of living with your condition more bearable—get in touch about your case today.

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Expert advice from our personal injury solicitors 

Wherever you work, your employer has a duty of care to protect you from health and safety risks. If you've been diagnosed with COPD, you should consider whether it might’ve been caused by a current or former working environment.

What is COPD and how is it caused?

COPD is a term used for a group of conditions that affect the lungs. Conditions classed as COPD include emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both of which cause significant breathing problems.

Breathing problems caused by COPD tend to get worse over time. Although quite a common condition, it can limit your ability to do normal activities. You will likely feel out of breath doing simple tasks because COPD makes it harder for you to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

It is caused by inhaling harmful substances like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and certain dusts and fumes.

Why choose Irwin Mitchell to make a compensation claim for COPD or emphysema?

We understand how distressing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema can be, both to sufferers and their loved ones. We have successfully helped thousands of claimants who have lived with chronic lung disease over the years. That's why we will dedicate ourselves to getting every penny of compensation you deserve.

You will get more than legal help, too—our Support and Rehabilitation team is here to help you access any care that could make living with your condition easier. You can also benefit from our strong relationships with charities, support groups, and local care providers all over the country.

Meet a specialist from our team

Our market leading team will help you understand your rights, secure the compensation you’re owed, and access vital support – from rehabilitation to long-term care.

Speak to a Specialist

We are here to help you understand your rights and the support you need. Complete our enquiry form and one of our experts will contact you by the next working day.


Alternatively, you can call us now.


Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (Excluding Public Holidays).

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Making an enquiry

We have several ways you can contact us, either by completing our online contact form, by phone, or using our live chat. If you start your journey online, here are the first steps to working together.
  • contact us
    Complete our online form
    We need a few details to understand your situation and the kind of support you need.
  • Few questions
    We’ll contact you by phone
    On the call our experts will ask you a few more questions to make sure we connect you with the right legal advice from our team.
  • Appointment
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    If we're able to support you further, the next step is an appointment with one of our specialists so we can discuss everything in more detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Living with chronic lung disease can be extremely difficult, so we are here to help you get the answers and support you need. Read some of our FAQs to find out more about making a claim.

Many traditional industries have long been associated with a risk of developing COPD. Coal miners who were exposed to coal and stone dust often developed COPD, while welders, construction workers and people who work with petroleum are also at risk. People who work in the textile industry are also at a greater risk of developing COPD due to working with cotton and nylon.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates there are 4,000 annual occupational deaths caused by COPD in the UK.

Information to help with your claim 

We can help with legal guidance and advice as well as other services you might need to aid your recovery and get your life back on track.
  • Support and Rehabilitation Co-ordinators

    We'll make sure you get everything you need throughout the claims process.

  • About Irwin Mitchell

    Find out more about our areas of expertise and our long, successful history.  

  • Personal Injury Claims Guides

    Answers to some frequently asked questions relating to personal injury claims.

  • Employment Law

    We could help if you're facing issues with your current or former employer.

Irwin Mitchell Scotland

Scottish cases will be handled by the Scottish law firm with which we are associated, Irwin Mitchell Scotland LLP. The law relating to funding is different in Scotland and you will receive separate advice about what that means as well as a separate funding agreement.

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