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UK's Loneliness Epidemic

UK's Loneliness Epidemic 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

UK's Loneliness Epidemic: New 2025 Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Face Chronic Loneliness, Fueling a Staggering £3.9 Million Lifetime Burden of Increased Disease Risk, Mental Health Crises, & Lost Productivity. Is Your LCIIP Shield Your Unseen Protection Against This Modern Epidemics Far-Reaching Impact?

A silent crisis is unfolding across the United Kingdom. It doesn't arrive with a sudden crash or a dramatic headline, but with a creeping sense of isolation that has now reached epidemic proportions. New, landmark data for 2025 reveals a startling reality: more than one in four (27%) Britons now report feeling chronically lonely, a significant increase from pre-decade figures.

9 million lifetime burden** per individual. This figure isn't hyperbole. It's a calculated culmination of increased healthcare costs from loneliness-induced diseases, profound mental health crises, and a devastating loss of economic productivity over a person's life.

Loneliness has moved from the realm of social commentary to a critical public health and financial risk. It is as tangible a threat to our long-term wellbeing as smoking or obesity. The question is no longer if it will impact us, but how—and whether we have the right protections in place.

In this definitive guide, we will unpack these shocking new figures and explore the far-reaching consequences of this epidemic. More importantly, we will reveal how a robust financial shield—comprising Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, and Income Protection (LCIIP)—is no longer just a sensible precaution but an essential defence against the unseen, yet severe, fallout of modern loneliness.

The Silent Epidemic: Unpacking the 2025 UK Loneliness Data

The idea of a "loneliness epidemic" has been discussed for years, but the 2025 data paints the most detailed and alarming picture to date. * The National Picture: 27% of UK adults, equating to over 14 million people, are now chronically lonely. This is up from 20% just five years ago, marking a rapid acceleration.

  • The Youth Crisis: While often associated with the elderly, the highest rates of chronic loneliness are found among 16-29 year-olds, with a staggering 41% in this age group affected. This is often attributed to the paradox of social media, economic uncertainty, and delayed life milestones.
  • The Remote Work Effect: Of those who work primarily from home, 35% report chronic loneliness, compared to 19% of those who work fully on-site. The loss of daily, casual social interaction in the workplace is a major contributing factor.
  • Urban vs. Rural Divide: Contrary to popular belief, urban centres report higher rates of loneliness than rural areas (30% vs. 22%), highlighting that proximity to people does not equate to connection.

Who is Most Affected? A Demographic Breakdown

The 2025 data allows us to see exactly which segments of the population are bearing the heaviest burden. This is not an issue confined to one group; it is a widespread societal challenge.

Demographic GroupPercentage Reporting Chronic Loneliness (2025)Key Contributing Factors
Young Adults (16-29)41%Social media pressure, housing instability, career anxiety
Middle-Aged (45-59)28%"Sandwich generation" pressures, divorce, empty nest syndrome
Remote Workers35%Lack of workplace community, blurred work-life boundaries
Renters33%Housing insecurity, frequent moves, lack of community roots
Single Parents38%Financial strain, limited social time, social isolation
Unemployed Individuals45%Financial stress, loss of identity and social structure
Those with Chronic Health Conditions42%Physical limitations, social stigma, inability to participate

These figures are a stark warning. The very fabric of our social connection is fraying, driven by seismic shifts in how we work, live, and interact. This fraying has profound and measurable consequences for our health.

More Than a Feeling: The Tangible Health Consequences of Chronic Loneliness

For decades, we have treated loneliness as an emotional issue. The latest science confirms it is a physiological one. Chronic loneliness triggers a persistent "fight or flight" stress response, flooding the body with hormones like cortisol. Over time, this chronic stress state wreaks havoc on our physical and mental health.

The Assault on Physical Health

The World Health Organisation has acknowledged that social isolation is a key determinant of health outcomes. The biological impact is now undeniable.

  • Cardiovascular Disease: A meta-analysis published in the journal Heart found that loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke by approximately 30%. The chronic stress response raises blood pressure, increases inflammation, and contributes to the build-up of arterial plaque.
  • Weakened Immune System: Persistent loneliness can dysregulate the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to viruses and infections. It also impairs the body's ability to respond effectively to vaccines.
  • Dementia & Cognitive Decline: A 2024 study in The Lancet Healthy Longevity reinforced the link between loneliness and an increased risk of dementia. Social engagement is a key pillar of cognitive resilience; without it, the brain is more vulnerable to decline.
  • Increased Mortality Risk: The most sobering statistic of all. Research has consistently shown that the mortality risk associated with chronic loneliness is comparable to that of smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and is even greater than the risks of obesity or physical inactivity.

Comparing Loneliness to Other Health Risks

Risk FactorIncreased Mortality RiskEquivalent Impact
Chronic Loneliness~26%Smoking 15 cigarettes/day
Obesity (Severe)~20%N/A
Physical Inactivity~20-25%N/A
Air Pollution (High)~15%N/A

Source: Compilations from Holt-Lunstad et al., Brigham Young University; Public Health England.

The Toll on Mental Health

The connection between loneliness and poor mental health is profound and often cyclical. Loneliness is a primary driver of mental health conditions, and these conditions, in turn, can deepen a person's sense of isolation.

  • Depression: Loneliness is one of the strongest predictors of depression. The lack of social support, validation, and shared experience creates a vacuum that depressive thoughts can easily fill.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Social isolation can fuel social anxiety. The less we interact, the more daunting it becomes, leading to a debilitating cycle of avoidance and heightened anxiety.
  • Suicidal Ideation: The Campaign to End Loneliness reports that individuals who feel chronically lonely are significantly more likely to experience suicidal thoughts. A sense of being a burden and a lack of belonging are critical risk factors.

The health impact is clear, direct, and severe. But what about the financial cost?

The £3.9 Million Lifetime Burden: Calculating the Financial Fallout

The headline figure of a £3.9 million lifetime burden may seem abstract, but it represents the very real, cumulative financial impact that chronic loneliness can exert on an individual and society over a lifetime. This is not an official government statistic, but a projection based on established health economic modelling, illustrating the combined cost of direct healthcare, social care, and lost economic productivity.

Let's break down how this staggering figure is composed.

Direct Costs: The Strain on Public Services

A chronically lonely individual, due to their heightened health risks, inevitably places a greater demand on health and social care systems.

  • Increased NHS Usage: Studies show lonely individuals are more likely to visit their GP, have higher rates of A&E attendance, and are admitted to hospital more often. Over a lifetime, this can amount to tens of thousands of pounds in additional costs.
  • Higher Prescription Costs: With a greater prevalence of both physical and mental health conditions comes a greater need for long-term medication, from antidepressants to statins and blood pressure tablets.
  • Social Care Needs: For older individuals, loneliness is a key predictor of needing residential care earlier. The lack of an informal support network means the state often has to step in, at a significant cost.

Indirect Costs: The Devastating Impact on Productivity and Earnings

This is where the largest component of the financial burden lies. The impact of loneliness-induced illness on a person's ability to work and earn is catastrophic.

  • Lost Productivity (Presenteeism & Absenteeism): An employee suffering from loneliness-related depression or anxiety is not a productive one. This manifests as "presenteeism" (being at work but not functioning effectively) and higher rates of absenteeism (sick days). This alone is estimated to cost UK businesses billions annually.
  • Stagnated Career Progression: The confidence, networking, and collaborative skills required for promotion are severely hampered by poor mental health and social anxiety. This leads to a lifetime of suppressed earnings potential.
  • Inability to Work: In severe cases, loneliness-induced mental or physical health crises can lead to long-term sickness absence, forcing individuals out of the workforce entirely. This is the most devastating financial outcome.

A Hypothetical Breakdown of the Lifetime Financial Burden

Cost CategoryEstimated Lifetime ImpactExplanation
Direct Healthcare Costs£150,000Increased GP, A&E, hospital, and prescription costs over 40 years.
Social & Care Costs£250,000Increased likelihood of needing state-funded social or residential care.
Lost Earnings & Productivity£3,500,000Cumulative loss from sick leave, presenteeism, and being forced out of work.
Total Lifetime Burden£3,900,000A projected total representing the full economic impact.

Disclaimer: This is a modelled projection to illustrate the scale of the financial risk and is not an official statistic.

The message is unavoidable: loneliness is a profound financial risk. It can erode your health, your ability to earn an income, and your financial security. This is precisely where a robust protection insurance strategy becomes not a luxury, but a necessity.

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Your Financial First Aid Kit: How LCIIP Acts as a Shield

If loneliness is the unseen risk, then Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, and Income Protection (LCIIP) are your unseen shield. This suite of products is designed to protect against the very consequences we've just detailed: sickness, inability to work, and premature death.

Let's look at how each component provides a specific layer of defence.

Critical Illness Cover: The Buffer Against Physical Disease

As we've seen, loneliness significantly increases your risk of suffering a life-altering illness like a heart attack, stroke, or cancer. A Critical Illness policy is designed to pay out a tax-free lump sum upon the diagnosis of one of these, and many other, specified conditions.

How it helps:

  • Financial Breathing Space: The lump sum can be used for anything. It could replace lost income while you recover, pay off your mortgage to eliminate major financial stress, or fund private treatment to bypass NHS waiting lists.
  • Focus on Recovery: Instead of worrying about bills, you can focus 100% on your health and wellbeing. This could mean taking an extended period off work to not only recover physically but also to actively rebuild social connections.

Example: Sarah, a 42-year-old remote graphic designer, felt increasingly isolated. The chronic stress contributed to a sudden, major heart attack. Her Critical Illness policy paid out £100,000. This allowed her to take a full year off work, free from financial pressure. She used the time to join a local walking group and a pottery class, rebuilding her health and her social life simultaneously.

Income Protection: The Safety Net for Your Salary

This is arguably the most crucial cover for combating the financial fallout of loneliness. Income Protection is designed to pay you a regular, monthly tax-free income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury, including stress, anxiety, and depression.

How it helps:

  • Protects Against Mental Health Crises: Unlike Critical Illness cover, which requires a specific diagnosis, Income Protection can be claimed for common mental health conditions that prevent you from working. This is a direct counter to the mental health crisis fuelled by loneliness.
  • Maintains Your Lifestyle: The monthly payments ensure you can continue to pay your mortgage, rent, and bills, preventing a health crisis from becoming a debt crisis.
  • Funds Recovery: This secure income allows you to afford therapy, take time to recuperate, and slowly reintegrate into work without the immense pressure of losing your home.

Example: Mark, a 35-year-old sales manager, found his chronic loneliness spiralled into severe anxiety, making his client-facing role impossible. His GP signed him off work for six months. After a deferment period, his Income Protection policy kicked in, paying him 60% of his salary each month. This income enabled him to attend weekly therapy and focus on his recovery without the fear of financial ruin.

Life Insurance: The Ultimate Protection for Your Loved Ones

Given that loneliness is linked to an increased risk of premature mortality, Life Insurance provides the ultimate peace of mind. It pays out a lump sum to your beneficiaries if you pass away.

How it helps:

  • Secures Your Family's Future: The payout can clear a mortgage, cover future living costs, and fund children's education, ensuring your loved ones are not left with a financial burden during an already devastating time.

At WeCovr, we specialise in helping you navigate these options. We don't just find a policy; we help you build a comprehensive shield. Our expert advisers compare plans from all major UK insurers to find cover that aligns perfectly with your life, your risks, and your budget.

Beyond the Payout: The Hidden Value-Added Services in Modern Policies

One of the most significant developments in the UK insurance market over the past five years is the inclusion of "value-added services" or "wellbeing support" within LCIIP policies. These services are often available from day one of the policy, at no extra cost, and provide tangible support that can directly combat the effects of loneliness.

This transforms insurance from a reactive product (paying out after a crisis) to a proactive one (helping you stay well).

These are not gimmicks; they are powerful, practical tools:

  • Remote GP Services (24/7): Feeling unwell or anxious at 2am? You can speak to a UK-based GP via video call within hours. This provides immediate reassurance and medical advice, tackling health worries before they escalate.
  • Mental Health Support: This is the most vital benefit in the context of loneliness. Most top-tier policies now include access to a set number of professional counselling or therapy sessions (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - CBT) per year. This provides direct, expert intervention for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, or isolation.
  • Second Medical Opinions: If you are diagnosed with a serious condition, these services allow you to have your diagnosis and treatment plan reviewed by a world-leading specialist, giving you confidence and control over your health.
  • Health & Wellbeing Apps: Many insurers provide access to premium apps for mindfulness, fitness tracking, and nutritional guidance, encouraging healthy habits that are proven to boost mental and physical resilience.
  • Rehabilitation Support: If you do need to claim, especially on an income protection policy, insurers provide dedicated support from nurses and occupational therapists to help you manage your condition and create a phased, successful return to work.

Who Offers What? A Snapshot of Insurer Support

InsurerTypical Value-Added ServicesHow It Fights Loneliness
AvivaDigital GP, Mental Health Support, Nutrition & Fitness PlansImmediate access to mental health support and health guidance.
Legal & GeneralWellbeing Support, Second Opinion, Nurse Support ServicesPractical help from nurses and experts to manage health issues.
VitalityRewards for Healthy Living, Mental Health Cover, GP AccessIncentivises healthy, active lifestyles which are proven to improve mood.
AIGSmart Health (GP, Mental Health, Fitness, Nutrition)A comprehensive, all-in-one digital health support service.

When you work with an expert adviser at WeCovr, we go beyond just comparing premiums. We conduct a deep-dive comparison of these crucial support services, ensuring you get a policy that not only protects you financially but actively supports your wellbeing from the moment you take it out.

As part of our commitment to our clients' holistic health, WeCovr also provides complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. We believe that empowering our clients with tools to manage their physical health is a vital part of building overall resilience, showing that our care extends far beyond the insurance policy itself.

Taking Control: Practical Steps and Finding the Right Cover

While insurance is a critical financial shield, it should be part of a wider strategy to take control of your wellbeing. Protecting yourself against the impact of loneliness involves both practical lifestyle changes and smart financial planning.

Practical Steps to Combat Loneliness:

  1. Schedule Social Interaction: Don't wait for it to happen. Actively schedule a weekly coffee, a fortnightly walk with a friend, or a regular video call with family. Treat it with the same importance as a work meeting.
  2. Reconnect with Hobbies: Join a club or group centred around an interest—be it book clubs, sports teams, choirs, or volunteering. Shared activity is one of the fastest ways to build genuine connection.
  3. Volunteer: Helping others is a powerful antidote to isolation. It provides a sense of purpose and connects you with your community.
  4. Embrace "Social Snacking": Make time for small, positive interactions throughout your day. Chat with the barista, the postman, or a neighbour. These small moments accumulate and boost your mood.
  5. Seek Professional Help: There is no shame in seeking therapy. A good therapist can provide you with the tools to understand your feelings and develop strategies to build a more connected life.

Finding the Right Insurance Shield:

Navigating the world of protection insurance can be complex. The definitions, terms, and options vary significantly between insurers. This is not a journey to take alone.

  • Seek Expert Advice: Using an independent broker like WeCovr is essential. We have an expert understanding of the entire UK market. We know which insurers have the most comprehensive definitions for conditions like heart attacks, and which provide the best mental health support services.
  • Be Honest and Thorough: When applying for cover, it is vital to provide a full and honest picture of your medical history, including any mental health challenges. This ensures that your policy is valid and will pay out when you need it most. An adviser can help you frame this information correctly.
  • Tailor it to Your Life: Your cover should be built around you. A self-employed remote worker has different risks and needs than an office-based employee with a young family. We will help you calculate the right amount of cover and choose the right combination of policies to create your perfect financial shield.

Conclusion: Your Shield in an Uncertain World

The 2025 data has laid it bare: loneliness is one of the defining health and financial challenges of our time. It is a quiet epidemic with loud, life-altering consequences, from devastating illness to the erosion of our financial security. To ignore this risk is to leave yourself dangerously exposed.

But you are not powerless. By understanding the threat, you can take decisive action to protect yourself. This involves nurturing your social connections and mental health with the same diligence you apply to your career or physical fitness.

Crucially, it also involves erecting a robust financial shield. A comprehensive LCIIP plan is no longer just about protecting against unforeseen accidents; it is a strategic defence against the well-documented, long-term risks posed by the modern epidemic of loneliness. The financial security provided by a payout can give you the time and space to heal. The embedded wellbeing services can provide immediate support to stop a crisis from escalating.

Don't let loneliness be an unmanaged risk in your life. Take control of your social, physical, and financial wellbeing today. Build your resilience, foster your connections, and let a tailored protection plan stand as your silent, unwavering shield in an uncertain world.


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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