National asbestos-related cancer charity, Mesothelioma UK, has appointed four new trustees – Kate Williams, Amanda Jones, Craig Evans and Mike Lind.
The four new trustees bring a wide range of experience in fields including healthcare, media, law and education.
Kate Williams has over 20 years’ experience at BBC Radio. She later joined the University of Northampton as a journalism lecturer, retiring as Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology in 2022. She now works as a senior accreditation adviser for the Broadcast Journalism Training Council. Kate is also an expert by experience; she was diagnosed with multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma in 2017 and underwent cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC at Basingstoke. After two years of clear scans, she is experiencing some recurrence.
Amanda Jones is a partner at Thompsons Solicitors, bringing over 25 years of experience in representing individuals and families affected by mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses. She collaborates with various trade unions across the UK, delivering educational seminars on legal issues to union members, representatives, and medical professionals. Recognised as a leading expert in asbestos claims by the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners, Amanda has spoken at the House of Commons about the urgent need to remove asbestos from public buildings and continues to passionately campaign for this cause.
Craig Evans brings extensive experience in asbestos safety and prevention as the Chief Operating Officer of the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA). His leadership has established high standards for asbestos training and enhanced the association’s reputation over the past 15 years.
Craig’s strategic expertise in management, marketing, and events will be vital for increasing visibility and engagement, helping Mesothelioma UK reach a wider audience. Additionally, his valuable industry contacts and involvement in various influential boards will support stakeholder engagement and resource acquisition. Craig is dedicated to expanding the charity’s impact, ultimately benefiting mesothelioma patients and their families across the UK.
Mike Lind is an Emeritus Professor of Oncology at the University of Hull. He qualified from Guy’s in 1981 and trained in medical oncology at Guy’s, The Christie and Newcastle. After becoming a consultant in Newcastle in 1992, he began caring for mesothelioma patients. In 1998, he became the foundation Professor of Oncology at Hull, developing a mesothelioma research program and securing several studentships and grants.
Mike also established a joint multidisciplinary team involving Hull, York, Scunthorpe and Grimsby, and contributed to the development of an oncogeriatric service with associated research initiatives.
Liz Darlison MBE, Mesothelioma UK Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kate, Amanda, Craig, and Mike to our Board of Trustees. Their diverse experience and expertise will be invaluable as we strive to enhance our services, raise standards and expand the charity’s reach to support even more patients. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by mesothelioma and ensure that they receive the best possible care and support.”
