Two men have started a support group in Belfast for people suffering from asbestos-related diseases.
The Belfast Telegraph reported that Arthur Rafferty and Brendan Whyte launched Asbestos Support Northern Ireland after Mr Rafferty found that there was a lack of information when he was diagnosed with asbestosis.
"In England, Scotland and Wales there are a number of asbestos support groups, yet in Northern Ireland there are none. We hope to raise awareness, offer support and act as a life line to those who feel isolated as they have no one to turn to," added Mr Rafferty.
The pair will offer advice to sufferers about state benefits associated with asbestos-related diseases, while help will also be given with completing paperwork and representation at DSS tribunals.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, up to 4,000 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and diffuse pleural thickening.