Asbestos & Mesothelioma Support Groups
Asbestos and mesothelioma support groups provide free emotional and practical support to people affected by asbestos‑related illnesses, as well as to families who have lost a loved one.
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with an illness following asbestos exposure, it can be a frightening and overwhelming time – and it isn’t always clear where to turn for help.
Across the UK, independent support groups work to help people living with chronic asbestos-related conditions and those coping with bereavement.
We’ve listed trusted organisations below to help ensure you don’t have to face an asbestos-related diagnosis on your own and can access the support you need, when you need it.
“The asbestos team at Hodge Jones & Allen is both experienced and very effective with a great track record of acting for claimants in relation to asbestos-related injuries.” – Legal 500, 2025
“They were extremely professional, sensitive and showed complete compassion at all times. Their work was second to none.” – Chambers & Partners 2026
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0330 173 8859if you have any other questions on Asbestos-related compensation, or want to make a claim yourself.
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Find the right asbestos support group
The organisations listed below offer independent support, including both group and one-to-one support, as well as signposting to trusted local services.
Support is available both regionally and nationwide, ensuring you can access help wherever you are in the UK.
London Asbestos Support Awareness Group (LASAG)
LASAG provides emotional and practical support to people affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos‑related diseases. Hodge Jones & Allen actively supports this organisation.
- Who they help: People diagnosed with mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses, and their families
- Support offered: One-to-one support, support groups, help with compensation, care at home support and bereavement support
- Geographic coverage: London and the home counties including Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, East Sussex, Suffolk, Norwich and Norfolk.
- Website: https://www.lasag.org.uk/
- Phone: 0808 278 2515
Asbestos Victims Support Group Forum UK
Asbestos Victims Support Group Forum UK is the national organisation representing asbestos support groups across the UK. It ensures member organisations are independent not-for-profit organisations or registered charities.
Who they help: People affected by asbestos-related diseases and families seeking trusted local support.
- Support offered: Signposting to free and independent support groups.
- Geographic coverage: Nationwide (UK)
- Website: https://asbestosforum.org.uk/
- Phone: 0174 482 0936
"After initial contact via the Support Group, Isobel made a ‘Home Visit’ and my wife and I found her very easy to talk to, given the stressful circumstances. Once we’d discussed what would and might happen in the case and furnished Isobel with copies of various documents she required, we felt so relieved that ‘someone was going to help’. Isobel kept us updated throughout the process, was thorough, knowledgable and professional yet managed to remain approachable, sympathetic and encouraging...My wife and I are so grateful for the help, support and kindness shown to us at this very difficult time in our lives, we appreciate the expertise and friendship and offer our heartfelt thanks."
Our experience of support groups assisting our clients
“In our day-to-day work, we speak to a lot of people after an asbestos‑related diagnosis who are trying to work out what their options are and where to turn for different types of support. We offer full legal support and signpost our clients to their local independent support group for support outside of the legal issues”
– Lorna Webster, Partner, Asbestos & Mesothelioma Team, Hodge Jones & Allen
Other organisations that offer support to those with asbestos-related illnesses
In addition to asbestos support groups, the organisations below provide various forms of support for people affected by asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
If you’re unsure which organisation is right for your situation, our specialist team can help signpost you to trusted and relevant options.
Medical and patient support charities
Mesothelioma UK
Mesothelioma UK provides information and nurse support for people diagnosed with mesothelioma and their families.
- Role: Mesothelioma specific information and support
- Website: https://www.mesothelioma.uk.com/
- Phone: 0800 169 2409
Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan offers emotional, financial and medical advice to people living with cancer, including asbestos‑related cancers.
- Role: Cancer support and guidance
- Website: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/
- Phone: 0808 808 0000
Asthma + Lung UK
Asthma + Lung UK provides information and support for people affected by lung conditions, including those caused by asbestos exposure.
- Role: Lung disease information and patient support
- Website: https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/
- Phone: 0300 222 5800
Training and awareness organisations
UK Asbestos Training Association
UKATA sets standards and provides training guidance for asbestos awareness and safety.
- Role: Asbestos training and standards
- Website: https://www.ukata.org.uk/
- Phone: 0124 682 4437
London Hazards Centre
The London Hazards Centre raises awareness about environmental and workplace hazards, including asbestos risks.
- Role: Public awareness and education
- Website: http://www.lhc.org.uk/
- Phone: 0207 527 5107
Workplace safety and regulation bodies
Health & Safety Executive
The Health & Safety Executive is the UK regulator responsible for workplace health and safety, including asbestos management and exposure guidance.
- Role: Workplace safety regulation and official guidance
- Website: https://www.hse.gov.uk/
- Phone: 0300 003 1747
What are asbestos support groups?
Asbestos support groups are independent organisations that provide free help to people affected by asbestos‑related illnesses, including mesothelioma, as well as to families who have lost a loved one.
Their role is to provide understanding and support following an asbestos-related diagnosis or bereavement, helping people feel less alone and more confident about accessing the help that is available to them.
What types of help can I get from asbestos support groups?
Asbestos support groups offer different types of help to support people through what can be an upsetting and uncertain time. The support available may include:
- Emotional support – someone to talk to one‑to‑one, or the opportunity to speak with others in group settings who understand what you’re going through
- Practical guidance – help understanding next steps, care options and day‑to‑day support needs
- Financial and benefits advice – guidance on benefits, grants and other forms of financial help that may be available
- Advice about travel and treatment costs – assistance or advice in relation to travel for medical appointments including assistance in obtaining a Blue Badge
- Bereavement support – ongoing reassurance and support for families who have lost a loved one
- Signposting to trusted services – help finding local organisations, healthcare support and other relevant services
- Legal support – signposting to trusted solicitors who can advise about compensation options
Are asbestos support groups free to use?
Yes, asbestos support groups are free to use. They’re usually run by independent charities or not for profit organisations and exist to support people affected by asbestos related illnesses and their families. You can contact them simply to talk things through at your own pace, without any obligation or pressure.
Do I need a diagnosis to contact an asbestos support group?
No, you don’t need a confirmed diagnosis to contact an asbestos support group. Many people get in touch when they are worried about symptoms or awaiting test results, to help them understand what asbestos exposure could mean for them or their family.
In some cases, you might need a diagnosis to access specialist or condition specific support, but you can still contact a support group at any stage. They’re there to listen, offering reassurance and helping you think through your next steps at your own pace.
Are asbestos support groups independent from solicitors or claims companies?
Yes, asbestos support groups are independent organisations, often run by charities or not‑for‑profit groups. Their focus is on providing support to people affected by asbestos‑related illness, rather than promoting legal or claims services.
That said, it’s worth being aware that some organisations may appear to be independent support groups, but are actually linked to claims management companies.
Support groups will be able to signpost you to trusted and experienced solicitors, such as Hodge Jones & Allen, who can advise about compensation options.
A genuine support group will be open about who they are. You should never feel pressured to take legal action or make decisions before you’re ready.
How do I find the right asbestos support group for my situation?
Finding the right support group often starts with thinking about how you’d feel most comfortable getting support. Some people prefer local groups so they can speak to someone face to face, while others feel more comfortable starting with a national organisation that offers support by phone or online.
It can also help to consider what kind of support feels most useful to you right now – for example, emotional reassurance or practical guidance.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we can help you understand your options. You’re welcome to contact us on 0330 822 3451 – we’ll listen to your specific situation and point you towards trusted, relevant organisations, so you can find the right support at your own pace.
