Latest figures show Plymouth has one of highest death rates from asbestos exposure in the UK

The figures underline the extensive use of asbestos in local industries, particularly at Devonport Royal Dockyard, where asbestos-laden materials were used widely in shipbuilding and maintenance, often in confined, unventilated spaces.

Many of these victims were exposed to asbestos decades ago, highlighting how the disease can take years to manifest after initial exposure.

South West residents are taking action, with legal claims providing critical financial support for families devastated by asbestos-related illness.  

Represented by law firm Leigh Day, a recent case highlights the successful pursuit of compensation claims.

Successful claim against former Exeter employer

Between 1960 and 1970, Bob Unstead, a former Exeter insulation contractor, was exposed to deadly asbestos while working for Kitsons. Bob, who worked in boiler rooms across Falmouth, Redruth, Camborne, Torquay, and Honiton, spent years applying wet asbestos lagging without adequate protection.  

Although Kitsons denied its use of asbestos and fought the claim, Leigh Day’s asbestos team gathered witness evidence from Bob’s colleagues and consulted experts to prove his case. 

Unfortunately, Bob succumbed to mesothelioma aged 62 before the case could be concluded. His widow, Tracey, continued the claim on behalf of their young son, securing a settlement to help shape their future.

Tracey Unstead said:  

“From the start of our journey, Leigh Day has been there when we were at our most vulnerable, which is so very much needed in cases like ours. A ‘thank you’ is simply not enough. Our lives will never be the same again, but our son now has a chance to realise all his ambitions with his dad watching over him.”

Andrew Stinchcombe, asbestos partner and head of Leigh Day's Plymouth office said:

“The high number of mesothelioma deaths in Plymouth and surrounding areas highlights the devastating legacy asbestos has left in our region. Many families are only now feeling the impact of asbestos exposure that happened decades ago, and the emotional and financial burden is immense. 

“At Leigh Day, we work tirelessly to ensure these families receive the compensation they deserve, which not only supports them financially but also opens up access to better treatment options that can make a real difference in quality of life.”