UKATA was proud to attend and support the Mesothelioma UK Ladies’ Lunch 2026, held on 20 March at the Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel. The event brought together supporters from across healthcare, industry, advocacy and the mesothelioma community for an afternoon of connection and fundraising.
The annual gathering once again provided a powerful platform for voices across the mesothelioma community. Guests heard from charity leaders and members of the community whose personal experiences highlighted both the challenges faced by those living with mesothelioma and the importance of specialist care and support services.
CEO of Mesothelioma UK, Liz Darlison addressed attendees during the event, sharing updates on the charity’s ongoing work to expand access to specialist nursing support, improve patient care pathways and raise awareness of mesothelioma across the UK. Her message reinforced the continued need for collaboration between healthcare, industry and charitable organisations to ensure patients and families receive the support they need.
Personal stories shared during the afternoon were among the most moving moments of the event, offering a reminder of the real human impact of asbestos exposure and the importance of continued awareness and prevention efforts.

Representing UKATA at the event were Membership Account Manager Olivia Anderson and Quality Assurance Manager Liam Pembleton, who joined supporters in celebrating the strength and resilience of the mesothelioma community while helping to raise funds for the charity’s specialist services.
Liam Pembleton, speaking on behalf of UKATA, said:
“It was a privilege to attend this year’s Ladies’ Lunch and hear first-hand the stories and experiences shared by members of the mesothelioma community. Events like this are incredibly important in bringing people together, raising awareness and supporting the important work that Mesothelioma UK continues to do for patients and their families.”
The event also featured fundraising activities throughout the afternoon, with generous support from attendees helping to raise funds that will contribute towards Mesothelioma UK’s specialist nursing service and patient support programmes.
UKATA continues to support Mesothelioma UK as a Gold Corporate Partner, reinforcing the Association’s long-standing commitment to raising awareness of asbestos-related disease and supporting those affected.
Through partnerships such as this, UKATA remains dedicated to promoting high standards of asbestos training and awareness, with the shared goal of preventing future asbestos-related illness while supporting the communities impacted today.
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
Published on Monday 30th March 2026