On 15 April 2009, The Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) announced that the Government
is now prepared to recognise Miners Knee, technically 'Osteoarthritis of the Knee'
as an industrial injury, and will award benefits for it from June 2009.
The benefit will be available on application to the DWP, and although the criteria
is yet to be announced it is thought that benefit will be paid if you meet the following
criteria:
- Minimum of 10 years working underground;
- Working in the Face, Headings, or Tunnels;
It is unlikely to be available for deceased mineworkers.
How to Apply?
If you keep your eye on our web site, we'll let you know when and how to apply for
the benefits. We will not be able to help you with the application ourselves, and
this is not work that we will refer to any of our Solicitors. The DWP will not pay
legal fees for benefits claims applications.
Can I Claim Compensation as well as Benefits?
Not at the moment, but we're keeping a close eye on a test case which is due for
Trial at the High Court late in 2009. If you would like to register with us for
free updates as to how this is progressing, please complete our on-line form here
or call us on 0800 077 6955. As soon as the result is known we will let you know.