Get killer out of schools


Unions used Action Mesotheliom Day at the beginning of the month to renew their calls for asbestos to be removed from schools following the death of another teacher from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. 


Lucie Stephens, as a legacy to her mother, is calling for the removal of asbestos from schools and has set up a petition calling for this to be done on a phased basis by 2028. It is thought Lucie’s schoolteacher mother Sue contracted the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos in a school where she taught.


Around 86% of schools contain asbestos and deaths from mesothelioma among teachers, support staff and former pupils are increasing. 


“The continuing presence of asbestos in so many schools is a disgrace,” said John McClean, chair of the Joint Union Asbestos Committee (JUAC). 


The members of JUAC are: ASCL, ATL, NASUWT, NAHT, NUT, Voice, UNISON, Unite the Union, UCATT and GMB. 


Lucie Stephens’ petition can be found at: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/protect-our-children-and-teachers-from-asbestos-exposure-in-schools?state=initial

https://www.teachers.org.uk/news-events/press-releases-england/end-deadly-asbestos-gamble