Merseyside Asbestos Victims Support Group (MAVSG)

Specialist Mesothelioma and Asbestos Support Across Merseyside

Merseyside Asbestos Victims Support Group (MAVSG) is a registered charity and voluntary organisation providing specialist support, advice, and advocacy for people diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis, and other occupational diseases caused by asbestos exposure.

For more than 30 years, we have supported asbestos victims and their families across Merseyside, Liverpool, and the wider North West, helping them access financial support, compensation, healthcare information, and practical assistance during some of the most challenging times of their lives.

How We Support Mesothelioma Patients and Their Families

Home Visits and Personal Support

We understand that a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be overwhelming. To make accessing support as easy as possible, our experienced team can visit patients in their own homes, where family members or friends are welcome to attend.

During these visits, we explain the services available, gather information needed to assess benefit entitlement, and develop a personalised support plan tailored to each individual’s circumstances.

Welfare Benefits Advice and Claims Support

Many people diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases are entitled to financial assistance but are unaware of the support available.

MAVSG provides a comprehensive welfare benefits assessment and helps patients apply for specialist schemes including:

We also assist with applications for:

  • Attendance Allowance
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Pension Credit
  • Blue Badge permits
  • Mersey Tunnels concessions and travel support where eligible

Our team ensures that benefit claims are structured correctly and considers how one benefit may affect entitlement to others.

Support for Armed Forces Veterans

Former members of the Armed Forces diagnosed with mesothelioma may be eligible for additional support through Veterans UK.

MAVSG works closely with veterans’ services, providing referrals and assistance with applications, while also helping veterans access other welfare benefits and support services.

Living Well with Meso

Our monthly Living Well with Meso group offers ongoing support for mesothelioma patients and carers.

The programme includes:

  • Social events and days out
  • Educational workshops
  • Guest speakers
  • Clinical updates from healthcare professionals
  • Opportunities to connect with others affected by mesothelioma

The group provides a welcoming and supportive environment where patients and families can share experiences and access reliable information.

Ongoing Case Management

Our support does not end after an initial claim is submitted.

We provide continued assistance with:

  • Changes in circumstances
  • Additional benefit applications
  • Mandatory reconsiderations
  • Benefit appeals and tribunal representation
  • Accessing relevant support services

Mesothelioma Compensation and Legal Guidance

Many people diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases may be entitled to compensation.

MAVSG provides independent information about pursuing civil compensation claims and helps patients identify solicitors with specialist expertise in asbestos litigation.

While patients are free to choose any solicitor, we encourage them to use firms experienced in mesothelioma and asbestos-related disease cases. We maintain a panel of trusted solicitors who do not charge mesothelioma patients for unsuccessful claims.

Importantly, MAVSG receives no financial benefit from referring patients to legal representatives.

Support for Bereaved Families

Following the loss of a loved one, families often face complex practical and financial challenges.

We provide support by:

  • Assisting with the Government’s Tell Us Once service
  • Signposting to specialist bereavement organisations
  • Reviewing benefit entitlement following a change in circumstances
  • Helping surviving partners access financial support

National Advocacy and Campaigning

MAVSG is committed not only to supporting individuals but also to improving services and outcomes for all asbestos victims.

We are proud to be:

  • A founding member of the Asbestos Victims Support Groups Forum UK (AVSGF UK)
  • Active participants in national campaigns for asbestos victims’ rights
  • Members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health
  • Founders of the parliamentary asbestos subgroup at Westminster

Working alongside partner organisations across the UK, we help influence policy, improve access to treatment, and campaign for increased funding into mesothelioma research and support services.

Our History

Merseyside Asbestos Victims Support Group was established following a public meeting in Liverpool on 3 February 1993, organised to address the lack of support and information available to people affected by asbestos-related diseases.

The group was formed with support from Liverpool Trades Union Council and Health at Work (formerly the Liverpool Occupational Health Project).

The late Eddie Loyden MP and former Walton MP Peter Kilfoyle played important roles in the group’s development. Today, Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram continues to serve as Honorary President.

Over the past three decades, MAVSG has helped thousands of people affected by mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos-related lung cancer secure welfare benefits, compensation, and practical support while advocating for improvements in treatment, services, and patient outcomes.

Our Mission

Our mission is to ensure that every person diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease receives the support, information, financial assistance, and representation they deserve.

As a democratic organisation run by and for asbestos victims and their families, we continue to campaign for better services, greater awareness, and ultimately a future free from asbestos-related disease.