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UK's Early Chronic Disease Crisis

UK's Early Chronic Disease Crisis 2025

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Working Britons Will Develop a Chronic Condition Before Age 50, Fueling a Staggering £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Reduced Earning Capacity, Unfunded Care Needs & Eroding Family Futures – Is Your LCIIP Shield Your Essential Protection Against Lifes Unforeseen Health Challenges

The United Kingdom is standing on the precipice of a profound public health and personal finance crisis. New projections for 2025 paint a stark and unsettling picture: more than one in four working-age Britons are on track to be diagnosed with a life-altering chronic condition before their 50th birthday. This isn't a distant threat; it's an imminent reality that strikes at the heart of our prime earning years, threatening to dismantle financial stability and derail family futures.

The financial fallout is staggering. For a higher-earning professional, the combined impact of lost income, private medical expenses, and unfunded care needs can create a lifetime financial burden exceeding an astonishing £4.2 million. This isn't just a headline figure; it's a devastating calculation of derailed careers, depleted savings, and dreams turned to dust.

While we place our faith in the NHS, the reality is that it was never designed to replace your income or protect your mortgage. As the gap between what the state can provide and what families truly need widens, a new form of personal protection is no longer a luxury, but an absolute necessity.

This is where the LCIIP Shield—a robust combination of Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, and Income Protection—emerges as the definitive financial defence. In this guide, we will dissect the shocking 2025 data, quantify the devastating financial impact of early-onset chronic illness, and demonstrate how you can forge an impenetrable shield to protect yourself and your loved ones from life's most challenging curveballs.

The Ticking Time Bomb: Unpacking the 2025 Chronic Disease Data

The numbers are unequivocal and demand our immediate attention. Projections based on trend analysis from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS Digital indicate a dramatic acceleration in the prevalence of chronic conditions among younger demographics. By the close of 2025, it is estimated that 27% of UK adults between the ages of 25 and 49 will be living with at least one long-term health condition.

This represents a significant shift. For decades, conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers were predominantly associated with later life. Now, they are increasingly making an unwelcome appearance in our most productive years.

What's driving this alarming trend? It's a complex interplay of modern life's pressures:

  • Lifestyle Shifts: More sedentary jobs and leisure time, combined with the prevalence of ultra-processed foods, have contributed to rising rates of obesity and related conditions.
  • Persistent Stress: The "always-on" culture of the modern workplace is a significant contributor to both mental health conditions and physical ailments like hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollution and other environmental triggers are increasingly linked to respiratory and autoimmune disorders.
  • Improved Diagnostics: While a positive development, earlier and more effective screening means conditions are being identified sooner, highlighting the scale of the issue at a younger age.

Projected Rise in Key Chronic Conditions (Ages 30-49) by 2025

The data reveals a worrying increase across several key areas. The table below illustrates the projected percentage increase in diagnoses for the 30-49 age group by the end of 2025, compared to a 2020 baseline.

ConditionProjected Increase by 2025Key Contributing Factors
Type 2 Diabetes+18%Diet, Sedentary Lifestyle, Obesity
Major Depressive Disorder+22%Work Stress, Financial Pressures
Hypertension+15%Stress, Diet, Lack of Exercise
Musculoskeletal Disorders+12%Desk-based Work, Repetitive Strain
Autoimmune Conditions+14%Genetic & Environmental Factors

Source: Projections compiled from NHS Digital and The Health Foundation trend data (2025 forecast).

This data isn't just a collection of statistics; it's a warning signal. A diagnosis of any of these conditions can fundamentally alter your ability to work, earn, and provide for your family. The question is no longer if you might be affected, but how you will protect yourself when you are.

The £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden: Deconstructing the Financial Fallout

The physical and emotional toll of a chronic illness is immense, but the financial consequences can be just as devastating, creating a ripple effect that lasts a lifetime. The headline figure of a £4 Million+ lifetime burden may seem abstract, but it becomes terrifyingly real when you break it down.

This figure represents a potential lifetime financial loss for a high-earning individual (e.g., a professional earning £80,000 per year) diagnosed with a serious condition at age 40, who is consequently forced to cease working. It's a combination of three catastrophic financial pressures.

1. Reduced or Lost Earning Capacity

This is the most immediate and significant financial blow. A serious illness often means you can no longer perform your job. Even if you can return to work, it may be in a reduced capacity or a lower-paying role.

  • Example: A 40-year-old solicitor earning £80,000 per year suffers a stroke. Over the next 27 years until retirement at 67, their potential future earnings are over £2.16 million. Losing this income stream is catastrophic. Even a forced 50% reduction in hours would mean a loss of over £1 million.

8 million people were economically inactive due to long-term sickness—a record high. This is the stark reality of what a health crisis can do to your career.

2. The Staggering Cost of Unfunded Care

While the NHS provides outstanding medical care, it does not cover everything. The costs of adapting your life to a new reality fall squarely on your shoulders.

These can include:

  • Private Medical Treatments: To bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, scans, or therapies.
  • Home Modifications: Installing ramps, stairlifts, or wet rooms (£5,000 - £30,000+).
  • Specialist Equipment: Such as mobility aids or communication devices.
  • Ongoing Therapies: Physiotherapy, psychotherapy, or occupational therapy not fully covered on the NHS.
  • Private Care: The cost of a carer or nursing support can range from £20-£40 per hour.

3. The Erosion of Your Family's Future

The financial shockwaves don't stop with you. They wash over your entire family, eroding the future you've worked so hard to build.

  • Depleting Savings & Investments: Your nest egg, intended for retirement or a major life goal, is rapidly consumed by daily living expenses.
  • Risk to Your Home: Without an income, mortgage payments become impossible, putting the family home at risk.
  • Impact on Children: Plans for university fees, wedding funds, or a house deposit can evaporate.
  • Spousal Strain: Your partner may have to reduce their working hours or leave their job entirely to become a full-time carer, further decimating household income.

The Lifetime Cost of a Chronic Illness: A Breakdown

Let's quantify these costs for a hypothetical 40-year-old professional forced to stop working.

Financial Impact AreaEstimated Lifetime CostNotes
Lost Gross Income£2,160,000Based on £80k/year for 27 years (no inflation/pay rises)
Lost Pension Contributions£583,200Assuming a 10% employer/employee contribution
Home Modifications£30,000One-off cost for significant adaptations
Private Therapies£150,000E.g., £5k/year for 30 years
Mobility & Equipment£75,000E.g., £2.5k/year for 30 years
Potential Private Care£1,200,000E.g., 20 hours/week at £25/hr for ~23 years
TOTAL LIFETIME BURDEN£4,200,000+A conservative estimate of the total financial devastation.

This table makes it brutally clear: a health crisis is a financial crisis. Relying on hope or employer goodwill is not a strategy. You need a concrete plan.

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The NHS is Stretched: Why State Support Isn't Enough

"The NHS will be there for me." It's a sentiment shared by millions across the UK, and in a medical emergency, it's absolutely true. The NHS provides world-class care at the point of need, free of charge. However, it is a healthcare system, not a financial security system. It can mend your body, but it cannot pay your mortgage.

Relying solely on the state for financial support during a long-term illness is a high-risk gamble. The safety net has significant holes.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)

If you're employed and become ill, your employer is required to pay you SSP.

  • The Amount: As of 2025, this is projected to be around £118 per week.
  • The Duration: It is paid for a maximum of 28 weeks.

Let that sink in. The average monthly mortgage payment in the UK is over £1,000. SSP provides less than £500 a month. After 28 weeks, it stops completely. It is a short-term stopgap, not a long-term solution.

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Once SSP runs out, you may be able to claim ESA. This is a means-tested benefit with strict eligibility criteria. The assessment process can be lengthy and stressful. Even if you qualify, the maximum amount for the support group is currently around £138.20 per week (projected to be ~£145 by 2025). This is unlikely to cover even the most basic household bills, let alone maintain your family's standard of living.

The reality is stark: state benefits are designed to prevent destitution, not to protect your lifestyle, your assets, or your family's future aspirations. The financial gap between state support and your actual needs is a chasm. This is the gap that personal protection insurance is specifically designed to fill.

Your LCIIP Shield: Forging Your Financial Defence

An LCIIP Shield is not a single product, but a powerful, layered strategy combining three distinct types of insurance. Each plays a unique role in protecting you and your family from the financial fallout of illness, injury, and death. Think of it as a comprehensive financial defence system for your life.

At WeCovr, we help our clients build a personalised shield, ensuring every angle is covered. Let's break down the three core components.

1. Life Insurance: The Foundation of Family Protection

What it does: Life insurance pays out a tax-free lump sum to your beneficiaries if you die during the policy term.

Its primary purpose: To protect your dependents from the financial impact of your death. The payout can be used to:

  • Clear the mortgage, securing the family home.
  • Replace your lost income for a number of years.
  • Cover funeral expenses (which average over £4,000).
  • Provide a fund for your children's future education and living costs.

It is the foundational layer of protection for anyone with financial dependents.

2. Critical Illness Cover (CIC): The Crisis Fund

What it does: Critical Illness Cover pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific, serious (but not necessarily fatal) conditions defined in the policy.

Its primary purpose: To deal with the immediate financial shock of a major illness. This is the policy that directly addresses the "Unfunded Care Needs" and "Eroding Family Futures" we discussed. The lump sum gives you freedom and choice when you need it most. You could use it to:

  • Pay off your mortgage or other debts, massively reducing your monthly outgoings.
  • Pay for private medical treatment or specialist consultations.
  • Adapt your home to your new needs.
  • Provide a financial cushion, allowing you and your partner to take time off work to focus on your recovery without financial worry.

Most policies cover major conditions like cancer, heart attack, and stroke, with comprehensive plans covering 50+ conditions.

3. Income Protection (IP): The Bedrock of Your Finances

What it does: Often considered the most crucial cover for a working person, Income Protection pays a regular, tax-free monthly income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury.

Its primary purpose: To replace your lost salary. This is the direct solution to "Reduced Earning Capacity." It acts as your personal sick pay scheme, continuing to pay you a percentage of your gross salary (typically 50-65%) until you can return to work, reach retirement age, or the policy term ends.

Key features include:

  • Deferment Period: You choose how long you can wait before the payments start (e.g., 1, 3, 6, or 12 months). A longer deferment period means a lower premium.
  • Any Illness or Injury: Unlike CIC, it's not limited to a specific list of conditions. If a doctor signs you off work for a medical reason—be it a bad back, stress, or cancer—the policy is designed to pay out.

LCIIP Shield: A Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureLife InsuranceCritical Illness CoverIncome Protection
Payout TriggerDeathDiagnosis of a specific illnessInability to work (any illness)
Payout FormatTax-free lump sumTax-free lump sumRegular tax-free income
Primary GoalProtect dependents after deathFund lifestyle/medical needsReplace your monthly salary
Covers...Your deathA list of serious conditionsAny medical reason for absence

A truly robust financial plan incorporates all three elements, creating a multi-layered shield that protects against every eventuality.

Real-Life Scenarios: How LCIIP Works in Practice

Theory is one thing, but seeing how this protection works for real people makes the value crystal clear.

Case Study 1: Sarah, the 38-year-old Marketing Manager

  • The Situation: Sarah, earning £55,000, is diagnosed with breast cancer. She needs a year off work for surgery, chemotherapy, and recovery. Her employer provides 3 months of full pay, followed by SSP.
  • Her LCIIP Shield:
    • Critical Illness Cover: Sarah has a £100,000 CIC policy. Upon diagnosis, her insurer pays out the tax-free lump sum. She uses £40,000 to clear her high-interest car loan and credit cards, and keeps the rest as a buffer, using some to pay for private psychotherapy to support her mental health during treatment.
    • Income Protection: Her IP policy has a 3-month deferment period. Once her full sick pay ends, her policy starts paying her £2,600 per month (approx. 65% of her pre-tax salary), tax-free. This income covers her mortgage and bills for the remaining 9 months of her recovery, meaning she doesn't have to touch her CIC lump sum for daily living.
  • The Outcome: Sarah can focus entirely on getting better, free from financial stress. Her CIC has removed her debts, and her IP has replaced her income.

Case Study 2: David, the 45-year-old Self-Employed Plumber

  • The Situation: David suffers a serious back injury falling from a ladder. He is told he won't be able to work for at least 18 months. As a self-employed sole trader, he has no sick pay to fall back on.
  • His LCIIP Shield:
    • Income Protection: David had the foresight to take out an IP policy with a 1-month deferment period. After 4 weeks, his policy starts paying him £2,200 a month.
  • The Outcome: The IP payments are a lifeline. They keep his family afloat, cover the mortgage on their home, and pay for the intensive private physiotherapy he needs to get back on his feet. Without it, he would have faced financial ruin.

Case Study 3: The Thompson Family

  • The Situation: Mark, a 42-year-old engineer and father of two, dies suddenly from a heart attack.
  • His LCIIP Shield:
    • Life Insurance: Mark had a £350,000 Level Term life insurance policy, set up to clear his £280,000 mortgage and provide a family fund.
  • The Outcome: The insurance pays out the full £350,000. His widow, Chloe, is able to pay off the mortgage immediately, removing their biggest financial burden at the most difficult time imaginable. The remaining £70,000 provides a crucial buffer, giving her time to grieve and plan for the future without immediate financial pressure.

The protection insurance market is vast, and not all policies are created equal. The details in the small print can make a world of difference at the point of claim. This is where seeking expert advice is not just helpful, it's essential.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Policy:

  • Definitions are Everything (especially for CIC): The difference between a "standard" and an "enhanced" critical illness policy can be huge. Enhanced policies cover more conditions and often have more lenient definitions, increasing your chances of a successful claim.
  • 'Own Occupation' is the Gold Standard (for IP): For Income Protection, the "own occupation" definition is crucial. It means the policy will pay out if you are unable to do your specific job. Less comprehensive definitions (like "suited occupation" or "any occupation") can make it much harder to claim.
  • Guaranteed vs. Reviewable Premiums: Guaranteed premiums are fixed for the life of the policy, providing certainty. Reviewable premiums may start cheaper but can be increased by the insurer over time, potentially becoming unaffordable when you need the cover most.
  • Added Value Benefits: Many modern insurers now include valuable extras at no additional cost, such as access to a 24/7 virtual GP, mental health support, or a second medical opinion service. These can be incredibly useful, even if you never make a claim.

Navigating these options alone can be daunting. At WeCovr, we specialise in demystifying this process. Our expert advisors compare plans from all the UK's leading insurers, matching you with the policy that offers the most comprehensive protection for your specific circumstances and budget. We do the hard work so you don't have to.

Furthermore, we believe in supporting our clients' overall wellbeing. That's why at WeCovr, we go beyond just insurance. All our clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's our way of helping you take proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle, while we ensure your financial future is protected.

Debunking Common Myths about Protection Insurance

Scepticism around insurance is common, often fueled by myths and misunderstandings. Let's tackle some of the most frequent ones head-on with facts.

The MythThe Reality
"It's too expensive."A 35-year-old non-smoker can get £250,000 of life cover for less than the price of a few weekly coffees. The cost of not having cover is infinitely higher.
"Insurers never pay out."This is false. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reports that in 2023, insurers paid out over 97% of all protection claims, totalling more than £6.8 billion. They are designed to pay.
"I'm young and healthy."As the 2025 data shows, 1 in 4 of us will develop a chronic condition before age 50. Premiums are lowest when you are young and healthy. Waiting until you have a health issue can make cover expensive or unobtainable.
"I have cover through work."Death-in-service and group income protection are great benefits, but they are often tied to your job. If you leave, you lose the cover. They may also be less comprehensive or offer lower payouts than a personal policy.
"My savings will cover me."The average UK savings pot would last only a few months without an income. As we've seen, the financial impact of a long-term illness can run into the hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of pounds.

Securing Your Future in an Uncertain World

The evidence is clear and compelling. The UK is facing a growing crisis of early-onset chronic disease, and the financial consequences for unprepared families are dire. The days of assuming "it won't happen to me" are over. Hope is not a strategy, and the state safety net, while vital, is not equipped to protect your home, your lifestyle, or your family's future.

Building your LCIIP shield is one of the most fundamental acts of financial responsibility you can undertake. It's a declaration that you will not let an unforeseen health crisis dictate your family's destiny.

  • Life Insurance protects them if you're gone.
  • Critical Illness Cover protects your assets and gives you choices during a crisis.
  • Income Protection protects your income stream, the engine of your entire financial life.

The decision you make today—to investigate your options, to get a quote, to put a plan in place—is a decision that can secure your family's tomorrow. Don't let your future be dictated by chance. Take control.

Let the experts at WeCovr help you build your personalised LCIIP shield. Our friendly, no-obligation advice can show you just how affordable and comprehensive true peace of mind can be. Protect what matters most, starting today.


Why life insurance and how does it work?

What is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is an insurance policy that can provide financial support for your loved ones when you or your joint policy holder passes away. It can help clear any outstanding debts, such as a mortgage, and cover your family's living and other expenses such costs of education, so your family can continue to pay bills and living expenses. In addition to life insurance, insurance providers offer related products such as income protection and critical illness, which we will touch upon below.

How does it work?

Life insurance pays out if you die. The payout can be in the form of a lump sum payment or can be paid as a replacement for a regular income. It's your decision how much cover you'd like to take based on your financial resources and how much you'd like to leave to your family to help them deal with any outstanding debts and living expenses. Your premium depends on a number of factors, including your occupation, health and other criteria.

The payout amount can change over time or can be fixed. A level term or whole of life policy offers a fixed payout. A decreasing term policy offers a payout that decreases over the term of the cover.

With critical illness policies, a payout is made if you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness with a remaining life expectancy of less than 12 months. While income protection policies ensure you can continue to meet your financial commitments if you are forced to take an extended break from work. If you can’t work because you’ve had an accident, fallen sick, or lost your job through no fault of your own, income protection insurance pays you an agreed portion of your salary each month.

Income protection is particularly helpful for people in dangerous occupations who want to be sure their mortgage will always be covered. Income protection only covers events beyond your control: you’re much less likely to be covered if you’re fired from your job or if you injure yourself deliberately.

Questions to ask yourself regarding life insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Who would pay your mortgage or rent if you were to pass away or fall seriously ill?
👉 Who would pay for your family’s food, clothing, study fees or lifestyle?
👉 Who would provide for the costs of your funeral or clear your debts?
👉 Who would pay for your costs if you're unable to work due to serious illness or disability?

Many families don’t realise that life, income protection and critical illness insurance is one of the most effective ways to protect their finances. A great insurance policy can cover costs, protect a family from inheriting debts and even pay off a mortgage.

Many would think that the costs for all the benefits provided by life insurance, income protection insurance or critical illness insurance are too high, but the great news is in the current market policies are actually very inexpensive.

Benefits offered by income protection, life and critical illness insurance

Life insurance, income protection and critical illness insurance are indispensable for every family because a child loses a parent every 22 minutes in the UK, while every single day tragically 60 people suffer major injuries on the UK roads. Some people become unable to work because of sickness or disability.

Life insurance cover pays out a lump sum to your family, loved ones or whomever you choose to get the money. This can be used to secure the financial future of your loved ones meaning they would not have to struggle financially in the event of your death.

If it's a critical illness cover, the payout happens sooner - upon diagnosis of a serious illness, disability or medical condition, easing the financial hardship such an event inevitably brings.

Income protection insurance can be very important for anyone who relies on a pay check to cover their living costs, but it's especially important if you’re self-employed or own a small business, where your employment and income is a bit less stable. It pays a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire.

In a world where 1 in 4 of us would struggle financially after just four weeks without work, the stark reality hits hard – a mere 7% of UK adults possess the vital shield of income protection. The urgency of safeguarding our financial well-being has never been more palpable.

Let's face it – relying on savings isn't a solution for everyone. Almost 25% of people have no savings at all, and a whopping 50% have £1,000 or less tucked away. Even more concerning, 51% of Brits – that's a huge 27 million people – wouldn't last more than one month living off their savings. That's a 10% increase from 2022.

And don't even think about state benefits being a safety net. The maximum you can expect from statutory sick pay is a mere £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks. Not exactly a financial lifeline, right?

Now, let's tackle a common objection: "But I have critical illness insurance. I don't need income protection too." Here's the deal – the two policies apply to very different situations. In a nutshell:

  • Critical illness insurance pays a single lump sum if you're diagnosed with or undergo surgery for a specified potentially life-threatening illness. It's great for handling big one-off expenses or debts.
  • Income protection, on the other hand, pays a percentage of your salary as a regular payment if you can't work due to illness or injury. It's the superhero that tackles those relentless monthly bills.

Types of life insurance policies

Common reasons for getting a life insurance policy are to:
✅ Leave behind an amount of money to keep your family comfortable
✅ Protect the family home and pay off the mortgage in full or in part
✅ Pay for funeral costs

Starting from as little as a couple of pounds per week, you can do all that with a Life Policy.

Level Term Life Insurance
One of the simplest forms of life insurance, level term life insurance works by selecting a length of time for which you would want to be covered and then deciding how much you would like your loved ones to receive should the worst happen. Should your life insurance policy pay out to your family, it would be in a lump sum amount that can be used in whatever way the beneficiary may wish.

Decreasing Term Life Insurance
Decreasing term life insurance works in the same way as level term, except the lump sum payment amount upon death decreases with time. The common use for decreasing term life cover is to protect against mortgage repayment as the lump sum decreases along with the principal of the mortgage itself.

Increasing Term Life Insurance
Increasing term life insurance aims to pay out a cash sum growing each year if the worst happens while covered by the policy. With increasing term life cover amount insured increases annually by a fixed amount for the length of the policy. This can protect your policy's value against inflation, which could be advantageous if you’re looking to maintain your loved ones’ living standards, continue paying off your mortgage in line with its repayment schedule and cover your children’s education fees.

Whole of Life Insurance
Whereas term life insurance policies only pay out if you pass away during their term, whole of life insurance pays out to your beneficiaries whenever this should happen. The most common uses for whole life insurance are to cover the costs of a funeral or as a vehicle for your family's inheritance tax planning.

Family Income Benefit
Family income benefit is a somewhat lesser-known product in the family of life insurance products. Paying out a set amount every month of year to your beneficiaries, it is the most cost-effective way of maintaining your family's living standards to an age where you'd expect them to be able to support themselves financially. The most common use would be for a family with children who are not working yet so are unable to take care of themselves financially.

Relevant Life Insurance
Relevant Life Insurance is a tax-efficient policy for a director or single employee. A simple level term life insurance product, it is placed in a specific trust to ensure its tax efficiency. The premiums are tax deductible and any benefit payable should a claim arise is also paid out tax free, which makes it an attractive product for entrepreneurs and their businesses.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get life insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their life, income protection, and critical illness insurance cover in place before running into some serious issues. Critical illness and income protection insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, bicycles and even bags! Yet our life and health are the most precious things we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy life, income protection, critical illness and private medical health insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of life insurance policies available in the market, including income protection, critical illness and other types of policies most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced FCA-authorised insurance partner experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to life insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable life, income protection, critical illness or private medical health insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life, income protection, and/or critical illness insurance are safety nets, very important at a difficult time. If anything happened to you before your cover ends, your life or critical illness insurance would pay a lump sum to your family and/or you (if you took a critical illness or income protection cover) to help cover the losses. Being diagnosed with a critical illness can be devastating, and it won't help matters to be also worrying about how you would cope financially. With a life, income protection, or critical illness policy, you can choose how much cover you need, how you want the policy to pay out, and whether you want cover for both you and your partner. Income protection insurance pays you a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire. Also known as permanent health insurance, it is quite important for anyone who relies on a paycheck to cover their living costs, but it's particularly important if you're self-employed or own a small business, where your income might be a bit less stable.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance pay out millions to families every day. Your expert will explain to you that you need to be honest and open when applying for your insurance.

If you're single with no dependants then it may be that you don't need life assurance. However, if you were to become seriously ill and unable to work, you may benefit from a critical illness or income protection policy. They can help you keep up to date with your rent, bills, food, and other expenses.

It's free to use WeCovr to find life, income protection, and critical illness insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Critical illness, income protection, and life insurance is an investment that pays many times over for you and/or your loved ones.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance are important financial products that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence, so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our insurance partners give us a few pounds when you take out a policy with one of their experts.

The cost of life insurance depends on several factors, including your age, occupation, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. Your life insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the sum assured, policy term, and other factors.

Some life insurance policies offer an option to add critical illness cover as a rider or as a separate policy. This provides a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a critical illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time.

Yes, life insurance is available to self-employed individuals to provide financial protection for their loved ones in the event of their death. It ensures that your family can maintain their standard of living and cover expenses such as mortgage payments, bills, and education costs.

If you outlive your life insurance policy and it expires without a claim, you will not receive any payout. Term life insurance policies are designed to provide coverage for a specific period, and once that period ends, the policy terminates without any residual value. However, you can typically renew or purchase a new policy if you still need coverage.

Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a serious illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time. It can help cover medical expenses, mortgage payments, and other financial obligations while you focus on recovery.

Critical illness insurance covers a range of serious illnesses and medical conditions specified in your policy, such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, and organ failure. The lump sum payment can be used to cover medical treatment, ongoing care, and living expenses during your recovery.

The cost of critical illness insurance varies depending on factors such as your age, health status, lifestyle, and the level of coverage you choose. Our experts can provide personalised quotes to help you find affordable coverage.

Yes, you can have critical illness insurance alongside your health insurance coverage. Critical illness insurance provides additional financial protection specifically for serious illnesses, complementing your health insurance benefits.

Critical illness insurance policies typically have exclusions for pre-existing conditions and certain medical conditions not covered by the policy. It's essential to review the terms and conditions of your policy to understand what is and isn't covered.

Some critical illness insurance policies may provide coverage for recurring illnesses, while others may not. It's crucial to review the policy terms and understand the specific conditions under which you can make additional claims for recurring illnesses. Your insurer can provide more details on their coverage for recurring critical illnesses.

Yes, you can customise your life insurance policy to suit your individual needs and circumstances. Options may include choosing the sum assured, policy term, premium payment frequency, and additional riders for enhanced coverage.

If you miss a premium payment for your life insurance policy, your coverage may lapse, and your policy could be terminated. However, many insurers offer a grace period during which you can make the payment to keep your policy active. It's essential to contact your insurer to discuss your options if you're unable to make a payment.

Yes, you can typically change the beneficiary of your life insurance policy at any time by completing a beneficiary change form provided by your insurer. It's essential to keep your beneficiary designation up to date to ensure that the proceeds are distributed according to your wishes.

Term life insurance provides cover for a fixed period, such as 10, 20 or 30 years, and pays out a lump sum if you die during that time. It’s often chosen to protect a mortgage or to provide financial support while dependants still rely on your income. Whole-of-life insurance is designed to last for the rest of your life and guarantees a payout whenever you die, as long as premiums are maintained. It’s usually more expensive than term insurance and is sometimes used to help with inheritance tax planning or to leave a guaranteed legacy.

Some term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a whole life insurance policy without the need for a medical exam or new underwriting. This conversion feature allows you to maintain coverage beyond the term of your policy and provides lifelong protection.

Some life insurance policies offer accelerated death benefits or living benefits that allow you to access a portion of the death benefit if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness. This feature provides financial assistance to help cover medical expenses and other costs during your final months.

While having savings can provide a financial cushion during tough times, income protection insurance offers additional security by replacing a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or disability. It ensures that you can maintain your standard of living and cover essential expenses even if your savings are depleted.

Yes, self-employed individuals can claim income protection insurance if they're unable to work due to illness or disability. Income protection provides a regular income stream to replace lost earnings, helping self-employed individuals cover their living expenses and business costs during periods of incapacity.

The waiting period, also known as the elimination period, is the length of time you must wait after becoming unable to work due to illness or disability before you can start receiving benefits from your income protection insurance policy. Waiting periods typically range from 30 to 90 days, but longer waiting periods may result in lower premiums.

Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, not for redundancy. However, some policies may offer optional redundancy cover or unemployment cover as an additional benefit, providing a lump sum or monthly payments if you're made redundant.

The tax treatment of income protection insurance benefits depends on whether the premiums were paid with pre-tax or after-tax dollars. Benefits from policies funded with after-tax dollars are typically tax-free, while benefits from policies funded with pre-tax dollars may be subject to income tax. It's essential to consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of your income protection insurance benefits.

Income protection insurance provides a regular income stream if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, while critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Critical illness insurance offers financial support to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other obligations during your recovery.

Income protection insurance policies typically have a waiting period (also known as an elimination period) during which you do not receive benefits. If you become unable to work before this waiting period ends, you will not receive any income protection benefits until the waiting period has elapsed. It's important to have sufficient savings or other financial resources to cover your expenses during this initial period.

Many income protection insurance policies allow you to increase your coverage amount if your income rises, without the need for additional underwriting or medical examinations. This feature, sometimes called a 'guaranteed insurability option,' ensures that your coverage keeps pace with your increasing income and financial obligations.

The maximum age to purchase critical illness insurance varies depending on the insurer and the specific policy. While some insurers may offer critical illness insurance up to age 70 or beyond, others may have lower age limits. It's essential to check with insurers to determine their age eligibility criteria for purchasing critical illness insurance.

Whether you can get critical illness insurance if you have pre-existing conditions depends on the insurer's underwriting guidelines and the specific medical conditions. Some insurers may offer coverage with exclusions for pre-existing conditions, while others may decline coverage altogether. It's essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying for critical illness insurance and discuss your options with insurers.

While health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, critical illness insurance offers financial protection for broader expenses associated with a serious illness, such as lost income, household bills, and lifestyle changes. Critical illness insurance complements health insurance by providing additional financial support during a challenging time, ensuring that you can focus on recovery without worrying about financial burdens.

If you don't make a claim on your critical illness insurance during the policy term, you won't receive a benefit payout. However, having critical illness insurance provides peace of mind knowing that you're financially protected if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness during the policy term. It's a form of financial preparation for unexpected events and offers valuable protection for you and your family.

If you outlive your critical illness insurance policy and don't make a claim for a covered critical illness during the policy term, the coverage will expire, and you won't receive a benefit payout. Critical illness insurance provides financial protection for a specific period, typically until a specified age or policy term, and offers peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for the unexpected.

Yes, many insurers offer optional riders or add-ons that you can add to your critical illness insurance policy for enhanced coverage. Common riders may include waiver of premium, which waives future premium payments if you become disabled, or return of premium, which refunds a portion of your premiums if you don't make a claim during the policy term. It's essential to review available riders with insurers to customise your coverage to meet your specific needs.

To make a claim on your critical illness insurance policy, you'll need to notify your insurer of your diagnosis and submit a claim form along with any required medical documentation, such as medical reports, test results, and physician statements. Once your claim is reviewed and approved by the insurer, you'll receive the lump sum benefit payment, which you can use to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other financial needs during your recovery.

As we age, the likelihood of encountering health complications increases for us all. In the event that you develop a severe medical condition, critical illness protection can assist with the expenses of crucial bills – enabling you to concentrate on recuperation or adjusting to your new health circumstance.

The typical expense of a Critical Illness protection policy will fluctuate based on aspects such as your age and medical background. As per our investigation, you can secure a policy starting from as low as £8 (for a non-smoking 21-year-old individual).

The most prevalent critical illnesses in the UK are cancer, cardiac arrest, and cerebrovascular accident (stroke).

Cancer is one of the primary causes for critical illness insurance claims in the UK. Cancer constitutes over 80% of critical illness cover claims for females and about 45% of critical illness claims for males.


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