News from Sheffield Labour

Miners’ knee victims to get government help as Sheffield MP welcomes initiative

Local South Yorkshire MP, Angela Smith, has welcomed the news that thousands of miners suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee, commonly known as “Miners’ Knee”, will be able to claim help from the Government.

Angela is able to confirm that osteoarthritis of the knee will be added to the list of “prescribed diseases” meaning that sufferers would now be able to apply for State compensation through the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

Government Ministers have decided to act on the recommendation from the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, that coal miners with the disease who have worked underground for ten years or more should be able to claim Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

Symptoms of the disease include pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced mobility. The change is expected to come into force in the summer.

Commenting on the announcement, Angela Smith said:

“I’m very pleased that this help is now available to those miners who, through no fault of their own are afflicted with this condition. It is estimated that thousands of former miners will now be able to benefit from this help. I am sure these new rules will help many ex-miners in north Sheffield and Barnsley get the benefits they deserve.”

Other news from Sheffield Labour

• Station Bridge roundtable with Transport Ministers announced - 8 February 2012
• Paul Blomfield MP slams Tory "ambush" of Government Fair Access Director - 8 February 2012
• Angela Smith MP highlights economic problems faced by Barnsley - 7 February 2012