A WORKERS' resource centre is launching a regionwide campaign to get justice for victims of industrial diseases.

The Cleveland Trade Unionists and Unemployed Workers Resource Centre, based in Middlesbrough, has joined forces with a Newcastle law firm to offer a unique service for those affected by hazardous jobs.

Starting from November, it plans to hold meetings at social clubs all over Teesside, where victims of diseases, like asbestosis, industrial deafness and vibration white finger, will be assessed on their chances of making successful claims.

Those who pass the initial interview stage will be given physical examinations and once illness is proven, a legal firm will represent them against their former employers in court on a no win, no fee basis.

It will charge a maximum commission of £300 if the case is successful.

Bob Duffy, the resource centre's co-ordinator, said one of the system's main advantages will be speeding up the long wait for examinations.

"It will mean that people won't face the long wait that they would have had with the social security department, which is one of the main obstacles to making a claim," he said.

l The first meeting will take place at the Priory Social Club, on Marton Road, Middlesbrough, on November 3 from noon to 3pm. For more information, call (01642) 244200