Miners seek compensation redress

19/08/2010

A group of miners has lodged legal claims against solicitors who advised them through the process of gaining Government compensation for injuries they received at work.

About 20 former miners have taken the action and said the 10-year-old Government compensation scheme is inadequate for their needs.

All of the miners suffer from vibration white finger, which causes pain and numbness and prevents them from doing certain tasks around the home.

The case will be heard by Leeds Crown Court, where they men will claim for compensation to pay for everyday home tasks such as DIY and gardening.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change, which runs the miners compensation scheme, said any of the miners who have grievances should consult another solicitor or go to the Legal Complaints Service.

The Government insists it administered the scheme in a fair way.

If the miners win their claims, another 50,000 may follow up the fight, according to the lawyer representing the group in Leeds.

Their original solicitors submitted injury claims with the understanding that none of the cases would need to be heard in a court and that any cash awards would be consistent and fair.

However Clive Coleman, a legal expert for the BBC, said some ex-miners did not receive enough compensation to pay for the tasks at home, which also include the cleaning of windows and cars.

Original Article: Legal and Medical