In July, former miners who suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee became eligible for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB), but there’s no need to go through a claims handler or solicitor to apply.

Some unscrupulous claims-handlers are charging up to £100 to fill out the form, but if people want free advice or assistance in applying for the benefit, help can be found at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. For further information, get in touch with your MP.