UKATA was honoured to support and attend Mesothelioma UK’s Annual Patient & Carer Day, on Tuesday 7 October 2025 at the King Power Stadium in Leicester.
Now in its 20th year, Patient & Carer Day has become a cornerstone event in the mesothelioma community, offering those living with the disease, along with their loved ones, a chance to connect and share experiences whilst hearing the latest updates in treatment, research and support.
This year’s event carried a special sense of occasion. The atmosphere in the room was both warm and uplifting, underpinned by meaningful conversations and heartfelt moments that reminded everyone why the mesothelioma community continues to push forward.
The programme included key sessions from leading figures in the field. Professor Dean Fennell, a clinical scientist and international leader in mesothelioma research, delivered a compelling update on current treatment trials and ongoing research in mesothelioma care, outlining both the progress made and the challenges ahead. Richard Blunt, Mesothelioma UK Ambassador and public affairs consultant whose mother passed away from mesothelioma in 2014, aged just 57 having been exposed to asbestos whilst working as a junior Doctor in the NHS spoke on the urgent need for a national asbestos strategy.
One of the most moving moments of the day came from Dave and Ali Staley, who shared their personal journey of living with mesothelioma. Dave was diagnosed with mesothelioma at the age of 39 in 2015. Their story was a powerful reminder of the emotional reality behind the disease, resonating deeply with everyone present and reinforcing the value of these patient-centred events.
Reflecting on the day, UKATA’s Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans said:
“It was a pleasure to attend Mesothelioma UK’s Patient & Carer Day alongside my colleagues Sasha Brailsford and Kelly-Anne Smith. The event was brilliantly organised and impactful.
A huge well done to everyone involved in putting together such a varied and thought-provoking programme, it’s clear how much hard work goes into making this day so meaningful for patients, carers and professionals alike”.
Earlier this year UKATA announced its status as Gold Corporate Partner of Mesothelioma UK, formalising over a decade of dedicated support for the national charity that provides specialist care and support to those affected by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma UK is the only national charity dedicated solely to supporting people with mesothelioma. Despite the UK having the highest incidence of mesothelioma in the world, many patients still lack access to consistent, specialist care. With over 2,700 people diagnosed annually, the disease remains a significant public health issue, affecting not only those in industrial roles, but also teachers, nurses and other public servants unknowingly exposed to asbestos.
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.
To find out more about future events or support services, or how you can support Mesothelioma UK visit: www.mesothelioma.uk.com or contact: info@mesothelioma.uk.com
Published on Wednesday 8th October 2025