Former UMIST Worker Speaks Out After Mesothelioma Diagnosis
UNISON through its lawyers Thompsons Solicitors has secured a settlement of £400,000 for a former University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) employee after the institution admitted responsibility for exposing him to asbestos, which led to a diagnosis of mesothelioma — a terminal cancer almost always caused by asbestos exposure.
The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, lived in UMIST halls of residence in the late 1970s before later working at UMIST's Barnes Wallis Building. UMIST became the University of Manchester in 2004.
He says he was routinely exposed to asbestos while carrying out his job, without warnings, training, or protective equipment.
He recalls working in an environment where frequent leaks would result in ceiling tiles, panels and debris containing asbestos falling into working areas and high traffic public areas giving staff little option than to remove and clean up the debris as best they could.
“Leaks and falls resulting in debris were simply an accepted fact of life" he said. “Asbestos debris would just be left there, and we were expected to deal with it. No one ever told us of the potential dangers involved.”
Decades later, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, for which there is no cure. He is now seriously unwell.
Following legal action brought on his behalf through UNISON’s lawyers, Thompsons Solicitors, the University of Manchester — which now incorporates UMIST — admitted liability. The case was settled out of court for £400,000.
As part of the settlement, the University’s insurer is funding further private chemotherapy treatment for him. This follows earlier advice from his treating clinicians that he was not eligible for any further treatment through the NHS.
The former employee said taking action was about accountability, not just compensation.
“I know I’m not the only one put at risk,” he said. “Other workers and students have been exposed in these buildings. I’m speaking out because this should never have been allowed to happen — and it must not keep happening.”
Amanda Jones, who leads the specialist asbestos team at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “This is a devastating and entirely preventable case. Our client was exposed to asbestos at work while doing his job, with no warning and no protection. The University has accepted that these failures led directly to his illness.
“I’m pleased we were able to secure a settlement that will provide much-needed support for our client’s care and treatment.”
The case comes amid growing concern about asbestos on university campuses. A January 2025 investigation by Confront Power found significant amounts of asbestos remain across UK higher education institutions, with more than 100 asbestos-related claims identified. The University of Manchester was reported as having the highest number of asbestos-related health claims of any university contacted.
Thompsons Solicitors supports the TUC’s Time to Get Rid of It campaign which calls for a fully funded national plan to remove asbestos from public buildings and prevent further loss of life.