Lyndon Chatting-Walters at Battle Back Centre

On this page you will find information about:

  • What mesothelioma is and the causes.
  • How to claim a War Pension for diffuse mesothelioma payments.
  • The Royal British Legion's campaign to support affected veterans.

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is linked to asbestos exposure.

Armed Forces Veterans are at high risk of military asbestos exposure which may lead to mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos related cancer and the military

If you are diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma as a result of your service, you may be eligible to claim a War Pension.

If you are considered eligible, you will have two options under the War Pensions Scheme:

  • receive a one-off lump sum payment of up to £140,000, or
  • choose to receive weekly or monthly War Pension payments

Find out more about the support available to veterans diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma, including information about choosing the lump sum payment on GOV.UK.

How to claim compensation

Veterans or the family of veterans with mesothelioma can begin their claim by contacting either:

For more information on War Pensions, the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, and how the RBL might be able to help you in your appeal process, read our guidance on our website.

The Royal British Legion's campaign work

The Royal British Legion works with politicians and officials at all levels to bring the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant to life and further the interests of the Armed Forces community.

One way the Royal British Legion does this is through its campaign work to support veterans and ex-service personnel with service-related mesothelioma.

Learn more on about the Royal British Legion's campaign for those with mesothelioma here on our website.

Get involved in other Legion campaigns

The Royal British Legion relies on the excellent support of the public in campaigning to meet the welfare needs of the ex-Service community. Your support is critical.

To find out more about the support the RBL could offer you, contact us via

Telephone: 0808 802 8080
Telephone overseas: +44 (0)20 3376 8080
Calls are free from UK landlines and main mobile networks
Email: [email protected]

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