The family of a fit and healthy father-of-four has secured £1 million in compensation after his death from asbestos-related mesothelioma linked to school maintenance work.
Rick Oakes’ Tragic Battle with Mesothelioma
Rick Oakes, 67, from York, experienced breathlessness starting in November 2021. Doctors diagnosed him with mesothelioma in February 2022. This rare cancer, which targets organ linings, stems from asbestos exposure that occurred decades earlier during his role as a joiner in schools across Kirklees, West Yorkshire.
An inquest determined his death on July 4, 2024, resulted from an industrial disease. Kirklees Council, his former employer, acknowledged failing to safeguard him from asbestos fibres.
Family Continues Legal Fight
Mr Oakes initiated legal action against the council before his passing. His widow, Rachel Oakes, 51, and family pursued the case to the High Court. Lawyers demonstrated the local authority breached its duty of care. The council accepted liability, leading to the substantial settlement.
Rachel Oakes shared: “Before his diagnosis, Rick was fit and healthy and loved playing golf and going on holiday with our family. It was incredibly upsetting for him when he was suddenly no longer able to do the things he enjoyed. Watching Rick suffer, knowing there was nothing we could do, was awful. We miss him every day.”
Raising Awareness on Asbestos Dangers
The family emphasizes ongoing risks from asbestos in many buildings. Rachel Oakes noted her husband’s determination: “Rick felt strongly that people should be aware of what asbestos can do. He knew many believe it to be a historical issue, but asbestos is still present in a large number of buildings today, posing a risk if disturbed.”
She added: “All we can hope for now is that by sharing Rick’s story, we can help raise public awareness and prevent future generations from losing loved ones to asbestos cancer.”
Support and Fundraising Efforts
Following the diagnosis, the family received aid from Mesothelioma UK and the Yorkshire and Humberside Asbestos Support Group. Last year, Rachel organized a charity garden party in York that drew 200 attendees and raised over £20,000 for organizations aiding those with terminal asbestos-related illnesses.
Legal Team’s Perspective
Nicola Handley, partner and solicitor at Irwin Mitchell representing the family, stated: “The last few years have been incredibly difficult for Rick’s loved ones, who’ve understandably struggled firstly with his diagnosis of mesothelioma and then sadly having to come to terms with his death. While nothing can ever make up for what’s happened, we’re pleased to have secured the answers the family deserve. We hope the settlement brings some form of closure to Rachel and the rest of Rick’s loved ones after what has been an incredibly distressing period.”
Council’s Response
Kirklees Council maintains it takes health and safety extremely seriously. Officials explain that practices have evolved significantly. The authority now follows the highest modern standards in managing and monitoring asbestos through a robust plan.
