Asbestos and the Law Conference 2026

Merseyside Asbestos Victims Support Group (MAVSG) hosted its annual Asbestos and the Law Conference 2026 on 5 June 2026 at the Liner Hotel, Liverpool. The event brought together leading barristers, solicitors, medical experts, health professionals and campaigners to discuss the latest developments in mesothelioma, asbestos-related disease, compensation claims and occupational health.

Chaired by barrister Patrick Kerr of 12 King’s Bench Walk, the conference welcomed delegates from across the UK, including legal professionals, trade union representatives, students and asbestos support groups.

 

 

 

 

 

Low-Level Asbestos Exposure and the Courts

Health & Safety Practitioner of Pragma & Associates, Dave Maddison, examined the complex issue of low-level asbestos exposure and how the courts assess whether exposure has caused a material increase in the risk of developing mesothelioma. His presentation highlighted the continuing legal debate surrounding exposure levels, dose estimation and medical evidence in asbestos litigation.

 

 

Johnson & Johnson Talc Litigation

Ian Bailey of KP Law provided an update on the ongoing UK litigation involving alleged asbestos-contaminated talcum powder products. The case involves claims relating to mesothelioma, ovarian cancer and other asbestos-related conditions. Delegates heard how naturally occurring asbestos can be found alongside talc deposits and the legal challenges involved in large-scale product liability actions.

 

Damages and Compensation Claims

Barrister Rachit Buch reviewed recent developments in compensation law following the Supreme Court judgment in CCC v Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. His presentation explored the assessment of damages and the implications for future personal injury and industrial disease claims.

 

 

 

Mental Health and Vicarious Trauma

Ishbel Straker, Chief Executive Officer of ISC-CARE Ltd, addressed the growing issue of vicarious trauma among legal professionals. She highlighted the importance of early intervention, wellbeing support and professional boundaries when working with clients affected by traumatic circumstances.

 

 

 

 

Understanding Asbestos-Related Diseases

The conference concluded with a detailed medical presentation from Consultant Respiratory Physician Dr Michael Beckles. He outlined the four principal asbestos-related diseases:

  • Pleural Plaques
  • Diffuse Pleural Thickening
  • Asbestosis
  • Mesothelioma

Dr Beckles explained the differences between these conditions, the impact of asbestos exposure, and the challenges involved in establishing causation in medical and legal proceedings. He also discussed the continuing risks posed by occupational, domestic and secondary asbestos exposure.

Continuing the Fight Against Mesothelioma

The Asbestos and the Law Conference remains one of the UK’s leading events examining the intersection of asbestos disease, mesothelioma research, medical evidence and compensation law. As asbestos-related diseases continue to claim thousands of lives each year, the conference provides an important forum for sharing knowledge, improving access to justice and supporting those affected by asbestos exposure.

MAVSG would like to thank all speakers, delegates and sponsors for supporting another successful conference dedicated to raising awareness of asbestos-related diseases and improving outcomes for patients and families affected by mesothelioma.

 

« Back