We recently heard that Colette Willoughby was stepping down from her role as Chair of the National Organisation of Asbestos Consultants (NORAC) after 14 years of incredible work.
Colette leaves behind a significant legacy of collaboration, progress and strengthened ties across the asbestos and occupational health community – including a meaningful relationship with Mesothelioma UK.
A partnership rooted in shared purpose
Colette first connected with Mesothelioma UK through an online YouTube conversation with Lorraine Creech, then Head of Nursing at the charity. This initial meeting sparked an ongoing partnership between NORAC and Mesothelioma UK, bringing patient voices and specialist expertise into industry spaces where they were most needed.
Under Colette’s leadership, Mesothelioma UK has been prominently involved in NORAC’s conferences. CEO Liz Darlison and others, including patients, have spoken at the events to share their experiences of mesothelioma, asbestos exposure and the real-life impact behind the industry’s work. NORAC has also made annual donations to the charity during Colette’s time as Chair, further underlining the organisation’s commitment to supporting patient care and awareness.
“For us, it’s about remembering why we do the jobs we do,” Colette said. “This is such a vital area. We help, we share information, and we show people what not to do so that the public is protected.”
Raising standards and supporting good practice
Colette’s leadership has been marked by a clear commitment to improving standards in the asbestos sector – a field where, despite an abundance of guidance, issues with surveys, air monitoring and working practices remain.
As a strong advocate for training and education, she has consistently emphasised the importance of ensuring professionals fully understand the guidance available. She has also openly discussed the culture of criticism that can exist within the sector, highlighting that while mistakes do happen, many individuals work to an exceptionally high standard every day.
“There are a lot of people doing a really good job who don’t often get recognition,” she said.
Celebrating excellence: a first for the sector
2025 was the year NORAC held its first ever awards ceremony – a pioneering moment for the industry. Liz Darlison was one of the guest presenters for the awards that celebrated the outstanding contributions made across the asbestos sector. Categories included Apprentice of the Year, Long Service, Innovation, and Most Unusual Find.
It was the first event of its kind, and according to Colette, it “went down really well,” shining a light on individuals and teams who work tirelessly to deliver excellence in such a challenging field. The awards are set to become an annual event, to ensure the sector continues to acknowledge and uplift the exceptional work being delivered.
Ensuring a smooth transition
Although stepping down as Chair, Colette will continue working closely with NORAC to support a smooth transition for the incoming leadership team. Her influence and expertise are deeply valued, and her contributions have laid strong foundations for the organisation’s future path.
Her leadership has strengthened professional standards in the asbestos sector while highlighting the human stories behind the work – reminding specialists of the lives their decisions protect.
On behalf of Mesothelioma UK, we would like to thank and congratulate Colette for her incredible dedication over the past 14 years. From being the driving force behind NORAC to consistently supporting our charity, her vision and commitment have made a lasting impact. Her legacy will remain at the heart of NORAC and her contributions will always be deeply valued.
