Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was prized for its strength, durability, and insulation properties. However, as the dangers of asbestos became more widely known, the use of asbestos in construction was banned in the UK in 1999.

Despite this, many buildings constructed before 1999 still contain asbestos. It can be found in a variety of building materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, and cement. If these materials are disturbed, asbestos fibres can be released into the air, where they can be easily inhaled.

Exposure to asbestos can cause a range of serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Sadly, these diseases often take years or even decades to develop, meaning that people who were exposed to asbestos many years ago may only now be experiencing symptoms.