Biography
I am the Regional Lead Partner for the Newcastle and Leeds Workplace Injury teams with over 25 years of experience in dealing with claims on behalf of clients diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer and other workplace illnesses.
My focus is on getting clients the support they need and the justice they deserve. I have helped a wide range of people including teachers, architects, policemen, office workers, joiners, plumbers, shipbuilders and electricians.
I am passionate about my work and lecture widely about this specialist field. I also work closely with Health Care professionals to support the needs of the firms clients. I lead a Team of 10 Solicitors, Chartered Legal executives and para legals, based in both the Newcastle and Leeds Offices , whose focus is to provide the very best legal advice and exceptional client service to individuals and their families following the diagnosis of a workplace illness.
Testimonials
‘Ian Toft is experienced and effective. He goes the extra mile.' - Legal 500, 2025 (Leading Partner)
"Ian Toft, Helen Jones and Emma Bell combine a wealth of experience with enthusiasm and efficiency in pursuing claims for asbestos induced diseases. Their clients, who mostly have life threatening diseases, are handled sympathetically and are generally very satisfied with the service they receive." - Legal 500, 2023
Next Generation Partner - Legal 500, 2022
Ian Toft is "compassionate and incredibly thorough." – Legal 500, 2021 (Next Generation Partner)
"As a family, we can't speak highly enough regarding Nicola Handley and Ian Toft, and the rest of the Irwin Mitchell team that looked after us, after the sad passing of our Mother. Right from the start, they dealt with our family incredibly sensitively and professionally, and were always on hand to answer any questions we may have had, throughout some very hard and emotional times..." – Client (read full 5* Trustpilot review)
"From the outset of my contact with Irwin Michelle’s they have been considerate and knowledgeable about my disease. There guidance has been invaluable in how I came to terms with my condition and resulted in a satisfactory outcome." - 5* Trustpilot review
"We were introduced to Ian Toft, a top expert in his field of expertise and a kind & compassionate man. The process of starting the civil claim against David’s former employer and concluding a final settlement was 3.5 years in total - a very long process. We always felt assured that Ian was “one step ahead” in the negotiations. Ian always tried his best to explain any progress in a clear way having called in expert reports from Dr Rudd the Doctor and Henry the barrister etc....
So would I recommend Ian and the Irwin Mitchell team? Yes I would! Ian also made sure that St Catherine’s Hospice in Scarborough received a financial payment to cover the cost of David’s care towards the end of his life. Thank You Ian and the Irwin Mitchell Team." - 5* Trustpilot review
"We engaged Irwin Mitchell to pursue a claim on behalf of my father-in-law, who tragically died from mesothelioma. At all stages of the process the team demonstrated exceptional skills, experience, professionalism and empathy. I would strongly recommend Irwin Mitchell to anyone who is thinking of pursuing a compensation claim for Mesothelioma or any other occupational illness and injury." – Client
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
I wanted to pursue a challenging career that would make a difference to people, groups and organisations.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
The one thing which I enjoy the most is meeting people: discussing their problems and trying to find solutions.
What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?
Its a hard working environment which is flexible and supports me in being able to deliver extraordinary experiences for my clients and colleagues.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I enjoy spending time with my family. I have 2 daughters both of whom play netball and are keen swimmers. This means I spend a considerable amount of time ferrying them both around to various sporting venues.
I always try to find time each week to go for a ride on my mountain bike or go for a run.
