The HSE have just released new figures showing that past exposure to asbestos killed 2,538 in Great Britain in 2013. It is very possible that this figure is actually much higher but the recorded cause of death is down to a secondary cause, such as a heart attack.
Action Mesothelioma Day is a national event, with mesothelioma groups and organisations from around the country marking the day with a range of events and activities.
This year the IATP has dedicated two memorials to the remembrance of those, whose lives have been affected by asbestos.
A bench along the South Carriage Drive of Battersea Park will be installed within the next couple of weeks. A brass plaque will be mounted on the bench with the inscription:
Remembering those whose lives have been affected by asbestos
The living owe it to those who can no longer speak
to tell their story for them”
The dedication will be on an ornate steel bench, which will be there for many years to come.
The IATP have also dedicated one of Kew Garden’s renowned bulb displays in honour those affected by asbestos. The Snow Drop display has been selected and can be found in the Conservation Area at Kew Gardens, part of Kew’s 16-hectare Natural Areas, which are around Queen Charlotte’s Cottage.
The Snow Drop is a symbol of Hope and one of the first flowers of spring, it is also the flower long associated with the mesothelioma community.
The dedication will be recorded on the Commemorative Touchscreen Register in the Secluded Garden glasshouse at Kew Gardens.
We wish everyone organising and taking part in an event for Action Mesothelioma Day, Good Luck and hope they have a great day.
The IATP will be carrying out a sponsored event, where we will be sending two teams to complete the Ben Nevis Charity Challenge. This is an exciting team challenge set in the stunning Scottish Highlands. Teams of four are challenged to climb Ben Nevis, cycle 25 miles (on road) and canoe Loch Lochy. All funds raised will go to the IATP’s chosen charity. We do still have a couple of places available on this challenge should anyone be interested in taking part please contact ben-nevischallenge@iatp.org.uk
*Figures taken from Department for Transport Statistical Release – 26.06.2014 and Health and Safety Executive Press Release – 01.07.2015