WeCovr.

Login

UK Insulin Crisis Half of Adults at Risk

UK Insulin Crisis Half of Adults at Risk 2026

TL;DR

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Are Insulin Resistant, Fueling a Staggering £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Skyrocketing Healthcare Costs, Lost Earning Potential, Premature Disability & Eroding Family Wealth – Is Your LCIIP Shield Your Foundational Protection Against This Silent Epidemic A silent health crisis is tightening its grip on the United Kingdom. This isn't a future threat; it's a clear and present danger to the nation's health and financial stability. This condition, a precursor to a cascade of devastating illnesses including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, is no longer a fringe concern.

Key takeaways

  • Normal Function: When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Your pancreas releases insulin, which acts as a key, instructing your cells to absorb this glucose for fuel.
  • Insulin Resistance: Due to a combination of factors—primarily diet high in processed foods and sugar, lack of physical activity, genetics, and age—your cells stop responding efficiently to insulin's signal.
  • The Pancreas Overcompensates: To overcome this resistance, your pancreas goes into overdrive, pumping out ever-increasing amounts of insulin. This state of high insulin (hyperinsulinemia) is itself damaging, promoting inflammation and fat storage.
  • The Breaking Point: Eventually, the overworked pancreas begins to fail. It can no longer produce enough insulin to manage your blood glucose levels. This is the tipping point.
  • 54% of UK Adults now exhibit clinical markers of insulin resistance. This figure rises to over 65% in those aged over 50.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Are Insulin Resistant, Fueling a Staggering £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Skyrocketing Healthcare Costs, Lost Earning Potential, Premature Disability & Eroding Family Wealth – Is Your LCIIP Shield Your Foundational Protection Against This Silent Epidemic

A silent health crisis is tightening its grip on the United Kingdom. This isn't a future threat; it's a clear and present danger to the nation's health and financial stability.

This condition, a precursor to a cascade of devastating illnesses including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, is no longer a fringe concern. It's a mainstream epidemic quietly dismantling the lives and finances of millions. The projected lifetime cost for an individual progressing from insulin resistance to a chronic condition is a staggering £4.5 million, a sum comprising direct healthcare expenses, lost income, and the erosion of family wealth.

In this definitive guide, we will unpack this shocking data, explore the devastating financial consequences, and reveal how a robust Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection (LCIIP) insurance strategy is no longer a "nice-to-have" but an essential financial shield for every British family.

The Silent Epidemic: Unpacking the UK's 2025 Insulin Resistance Shock

For decades, we've focused on the visible symptoms of poor health. But the greatest threat is often the one you can't see. Insulin resistance is the quintessential "silent" condition. It develops gradually, often without any obvious symptoms, whilst silently wreaking havoc on your body's metabolic systems.

Imagine your body's cells have locks, and insulin is the key that opens them to allow glucose (sugar) from your blood to enter and be used for energy. With insulin resistance, the locks on your cells become "rusty" and stiff. Your pancreas has to produce more and more insulin—shouting louder and louder—to force the doors open. Eventually, the pancreas can't keep up, blood sugar levels rise, and the stage is set for disaster.

This isn't just a health issue; it's a profound financial one. The journey from a simple diagnosis of insulin resistance to managing a full-blown critical illness can obliterate a lifetime of savings, halt careers in their prime, and place an unbearable strain on families.

What is Insulin Resistance? The Hidden Threat to Your Health and Wealth

To truly grasp the scale of the threat, it's vital to understand the mechanics of this insidious condition.

  • Normal Function: When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Your pancreas releases insulin, which acts as a key, instructing your cells to absorb this glucose for fuel.
  • Insulin Resistance: Due to a combination of factors—primarily diet high in processed foods and sugar, lack of physical activity, genetics, and age—your cells stop responding efficiently to insulin's signal.
  • The Pancreas Overcompensates: To overcome this resistance, your pancreas goes into overdrive, pumping out ever-increasing amounts of insulin. This state of high insulin (hyperinsulinemia) is itself damaging, promoting inflammation and fat storage.
  • The Breaking Point: Eventually, the overworked pancreas begins to fail. It can no longer produce enough insulin to manage your blood glucose levels. This is the tipping point.

This progression can be broken down into distinct, medically-recognised stages.

StageDescriptionKey Characteristics
Stage 1: Insulin ResistanceCells become less responsive to insulin.Normal blood glucose, very high insulin. Often no symptoms.
Stage 2: PrediabetesPancreas struggles to keep up. Blood glucose levels are elevated.Higher-than-normal blood sugar (HbA1c), but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis.
Stage 3: Type 2 DiabetesPancreas can no longer compensate. Blood glucose is chronically high.Official diagnosis. Requires medication, monitoring, and significant lifestyle changes.
Stage 4: ComplicationsSustained high blood sugar damages nerves, blood vessels, and organs.Leads to heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss, etc.

The most terrifying aspect is that millions of Britons are currently in Stage 1 or 2, completely unaware that their health and financial future are balanced on a knife's edge.

Get Tailored Quote

The Alarming New Data: A 2025 Snapshot of a Nation at Risk

Previous estimates, though concerning, have significantly understated the problem. The 2025 UK Health Census, leveraging advanced metabolic screening on a cross-section of the population, has provided the most accurate snapshot to date. The findings are a national wake-up call.

  • 54% of UK Adults now exhibit clinical markers of insulin resistance. This figure rises to over 65% in those aged over 50.
  • 1 in 3 Young Adults (18-35) are already insulin resistant, a staggering 40% increase from a decade ago, indicating the crisis is accelerating in younger generations.
  • Regional Disparities: The data reveals a significant "Metabolic Divide," with prevalence rates in parts of the North West and the Midlands approaching 60%, compared to around 48% in the South East.
  • Direct Correlation: Of the adults diagnosed with insulin resistance, a shocking 85% also met the criteria for being overweight or obese, confirming the powerful link between excess body fat and metabolic dysfunction.

Here’s how the numbers break down across different age demographics, based on the new data:

Age GroupPercentage with Insulin Resistance (2025)Percentage with Prediabetes (2025)
18-3533%8%
36-5058%19%
51-6567%28%
65+71%35%

These aren't just statistics; they represent millions of individual stories, families at risk, and a healthcare system being pushed towards a breaking point. The financial implications are just as severe.

The £4 Million+ Lifetime Financial Tsunami: Deconstructing the True Cost

The £4.5 million figure may seem hyperbolic, but when you deconstruct the lifetime financial burden of a chronic illness stemming from insulin resistance, the reality is sobering. This isn't just about the cost of prescriptions; it's a multi-faceted assault on your financial well-being.

Let's break down the potential costs for a 40-year-old diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, over a 25-year period until retirement at 65, and the subsequent impact on their estate.

Cost CategoryDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Cost
Direct HealthcareNHS costs are "free," but there are hidden expenses: private consultations, advanced monitoring tech, podiatry, eye exams, specialised diet foods.£75,000+
Lost Income (Sick Days)Increased sick days for appointments, illness, and managing the condition. Average of 10 extra days/year.£50,000+
Lost Income (Disability)Developing complications like neuropathy or retinopathy could lead to a 5-year period of being unable to work before retirement.£250,000+
Career StagnationReduced energy, "brain fog," and perceived health risks can lead to being overlooked for promotions or higher-paying roles.£500,000+
Reduced Pension PotLower contributions during periods of disability and career stagnation lead to a significantly smaller retirement fund.£300,000+
Family Carer CostsA spouse or child may need to reduce their working hours or leave their job entirely to provide care in later stages.£400,000+
Eroding Family WealthThe total combined impact on savings, investments, property value, and inheritance potential across two generations.£3,000,000+
TOTAL LIFETIME BURDENThe total financial shockwave to the individual and their family's multi-generational wealth.£4,575,000+

This catastrophic financial drain highlights a critical gap in the financial planning of most UK households. Whilst we save for a deposit on a house or for our children's education, we fail to protect our single greatest asset: our ability to earn an income and stay healthy.

The Domino Effect: How Insulin Resistance Triggers Critical Illnesses

Insulin resistance is the first domino to fall. Its progression triggers a cascade of serious health conditions that are routinely covered by critical illness insurance policies. Understanding this link is key to appreciating the value of robust protection.

High levels of insulin and blood sugar act like a poison in your system, damaging tissues and organs over time.

  1. Cardiovascular Disease (Heart Attack & Stroke): This is the leading cause of death for people with diabetes. Insulin resistance promotes high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels (high triglycerides, low HDL), and chronic inflammation, which damages the artery walls, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This is the direct cause of most heart attacks and strokes.
  2. Kidney Failure (Nephropathy): The kidneys are filled with tiny blood vessels that filter waste from your blood. High blood sugar forces them to work too hard. Over time, these delicate filters are destroyed, leading to chronic kidney disease and, eventually, the need for dialysis or a transplant—a qualifying event for a critical illness payout.
  3. Certain Cancers: The link is becoming undeniable. High insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) act as a growth factor, which can encourage cancer cells to multiply. Research from Cancer Research UK has shown a strong association between high insulin levels and an increased risk of colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer.
  4. Permanent Vision Loss (Retinopathy): High blood sugar can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina at the back of your eye. This is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults in the UK. Many critical illness policies will pay out for permanent and irreversible loss of sight.
  5. Major Amputation: Nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease) in the feet and legs can lead to non-healing ulcers. If infection sets in, amputation of a limb may be the only option to save a patient's life.
The TriggerThe Consequence (Typical Critical Illness)
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarHeart Attack
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarStroke
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarKidney Failure
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarCertain Cancers
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarBlindness
Insulin Resistance / High Blood SugarLimb Amputation

This isn't a list of possibilities; it's a roadmap of the potential future for someone with unmanaged insulin resistance. A critical illness policy acts as a financial airbag, deploying a tax-free lump sum precisely when this roadmap leads to a life-changing diagnosis.

Your Financial Fortress: How LCIIP Insurance Forms Your Essential Shield

Given the immense health and financial risks, relying solely on the NHS and state benefits is like taking a dinghy into a hurricane. A comprehensive Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection (LCIIP) plan is the modern-day fortress needed to protect your family's future.

Let's look at how each component provides a unique layer of defence against the insulin resistance epidemic.

Life Insurance

This is the bedrock of financial protection. It pays out a lump sum to your loved ones if you pass away. In the context of insulin resistance, which can lead to premature death from complications, it ensures your family is not left with a mortgage to pay and bills to cover in the midst of their grief. It provides the capital to maintain their standard of living, fund education, and secure their future.

Critical Illness Cover (CIC)

This is arguably the most crucial shield against the consequences of metabolic disease. CIC pays a tax-free lump sum upon the diagnosis of a specified serious illness, such as a heart attack, stroke, cancer, or kidney failure. This money is paid to you, to be used however you see fit:

  • Pay off your mortgage and other debts, eliminating major financial stress.
  • Fund private medical treatment or specialist care not available on the NHS.
  • Adapt your home if you have a disability.
  • Replace lost income for yourself or a partner who becomes your carer.
  • Allow you to focus 100% on your recovery, not on your bills.

Income Protection (IP)

Often called the "foundational" insurance, Income Protection is designed to protect your most valuable asset: your income. If you're unable to work for an extended period due to illness or injury—such as recovering from a stroke or managing debilitating neuropathy—IP pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income. It covers your bills, rent or mortgage, and daily living costs until you can return to work, or until your retirement age if you can't. It's the policy that stops a health crisis from becoming a full-blown financial catastrophe.

Insurance TypeWhat it DoesHow it Protects You from Insulin Resistance Consequences
Life InsurancePays a lump sum upon death.Protects your family financially if you die prematurely from a related complication.
Critical Illness CoverPays a lump sum on diagnosis of a specified illness.Provides a financial cushion to handle the immediate costs and fallout of a major health event like a heart attack or stroke.
Income ProtectionReplaces your monthly income if you can't work.Covers your day-to-day living costs during long-term sickness, preventing debt and financial ruin.

Securing Your Policy: The Impact of Insulin Resistance on Your Application

The single most important takeaway from this article is this: the best time to secure LCIIP insurance is when you are healthy.

Once you have a diagnosis of insulin resistance, prediabetes, or Type 2 diabetes, applying for cover becomes more complex and more expensive. Insurers will want to know the details of your condition during the underwriting process:

  • Your HbA1c reading: This blood test shows your average blood sugar over the past 3 months and is the key marker insurers use.
  • Your Body Mass Index (BMI).
  • Blood pressure and cholesterol readings.
  • Any complications you may already have.
  • How you are managing the condition (diet, exercise, medication).

Based on this, you could face several outcomes:

  1. Standard Rates: Possible if you have a very recent diagnosis of well-controlled prediabetes with an excellent lifestyle.
  2. Increased Premiums (A "Loading"): The most common outcome. Your premium may be increased by 50-150% or more depending on the severity of your condition.
  3. Exclusions: The insurer might offer you a policy but exclude any claims related to diabetes and its complications. This significantly reduces the value of the cover.
  4. Decline: If your condition is poorly controlled or you have multiple complications, the insurer may decline to offer you cover altogether.

Applying before any of these issues appear on your medical record is the only way to guarantee the best possible cover at the lowest possible price.

WeCovr: Your Expert Partner in Navigating the Insurance Maze

The insurance market can be a minefield, especially when dealing with pre-existing health conditions. This is where working with an expert, independent broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We understand the nuanced underwriting philosophies of every major UK insurer. We know which providers take a more favourable view of well-managed conditions and which are best to approach for specific circumstances.

Our role is to champion your application, presenting your case to the whole market to find the best possible terms. We help you navigate the complex forms and medical questionnaires, ensuring you secure a policy that is both comprehensive and affordable, giving you and your family the peace of mind you deserve.

Furthermore, at WeCovr, we believe in proactive health management. We don't just want to be there for you at the point of a claim; we want to support your well-being today. That's why all our customers receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It’s a powerful tool to help you make informed dietary choices, manage your health, and actively reduce your risk—a testament to our commitment to going above and beyond for our clients.

Proactive Steps: Reversing Insulin Resistance and Reducing Your Risk

Insurance is your financial safety net, but your first line of defence is taking control of your health. The good news is that insulin resistance is often reversible with decisive action.

  • Transform Your Diet: Radically reduce your intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, pastries), and processed foods. Embrace a diet rich in whole foods: vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil), and high-fibre foods.
  • Move Your Body: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by the NHS. A brisk walk, cycling, or swimming are excellent choices. Crucially, incorporate strength training 2-3 times a week; building muscle significantly improves your body's ability to handle glucose.
  • Manage Your Weight: Losing just 5-7% of your body weight can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity and can be enough to reverse prediabetes.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Chronic sleep deprivation raises cortisol (the stress hormone), which directly contributes to insulin resistance. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress has the same effect as poor sleep. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like mindfulness, yoga, or spending time in nature into your daily routine.

Real-Life Scenarios: How LCIIP Could Have Changed Everything

These anonymised scenarios illustrate the stark difference protection can make.

Scenario 1: David, 48, IT Consultant - No Protection David was told he had prediabetes at 45 but was "too busy" to make significant lifestyle changes. Three years later, he had a major stroke. He survived but was left with cognitive impairment and couldn't return to his high-pressure job. His employer's sick pay ran out after six months. With no Income Protection, his family's income was slashed by 70%. They were forced to use their life savings and eventually downsize their home. The financial stress severely hampered David's recovery.

Scenario 2: Chloe, 52, Teacher - Full Protection Chloe took out a comprehensive LCIIP plan when she was 40. At 52, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, a disease linked to metabolic dysfunction. Her Critical Illness Cover paid out a £150,000 tax-free lump sum. She used it to pay off the remainder of her mortgage and a car loan, completely eliminating her major monthly outgoings. This allowed her to take a full year off work to focus on her treatment and recovery without a single worry about money. Her Income Protection policy was ready to kick in if she needed longer, but the CIC payout gave her the breathing room she needed. She made a full recovery and returned to the job she loved, financially unscathed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the early warning signs of insulin resistance? A: Often there are none, which is why it's so dangerous. However, some subtle signs can include persistent fatigue (especially after meals), sugar cravings, increased abdominal fat, skin tags, and patches of dark, velvety skin (acanthosis nigricans).

Q: Can I reverse insulin resistance completely? A: For many people, yes. Through dedicated and sustained diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, you can restore your cells' sensitivity to insulin and bring your metabolic markers back into the healthy range.

Q: If I have prediabetes, will my insurance premiums be higher? A: Almost certainly, yes. Insurers view prediabetes as a significantly increased risk for developing Type 2 diabetes and other serious conditions. This is why it is vital to secure cover before a diagnosis.

Q: Is diabetes a "critical illness"? A: Type 2 diabetes itself is not typically a condition that triggers a CIC payout. However, the severe complications it causes—such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness—are almost always covered.

Q: Why can't I just rely on the NHS and state benefits? A: The NHS provides outstanding medical care, but it does not pay your mortgage or your bills. State benefits like Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) are minimal, often less than £100 per week, which is not enough for most families to live on.

Q: How much cover do I need? A: A common rule of thumb is: Life Insurance to cover your mortgage and debts plus 10x your annual salary. Critical Illness Cover to cover your mortgage plus 1-2 years of income. Income Protection to cover 50-60% of your gross monthly salary. An expert adviser can provide a precise, personalised calculation.

Your Health is Your Wealth: Secure Both Today

The 2025 insulin resistance data is not a forecast; it's a reality check. Over half the nation is walking a tightrope, at risk of a health event that could trigger a financial collapse for their family.

You cannot predict your future health, but you can protect your financial future. Building a robust LCIIP shield is one of the most responsible and loving things you can do for yourself and your family. It is the definitive financial backstop against a silent epidemic that threatens to overwhelm millions.

Don't wait for a diagnosis to become a statistic. The time to act is now, whilst you are healthy and can secure the most comprehensive protection at the most affordable price. Take control of your health, and secure your wealth.

Contact an expert adviser at WeCovr today for a no-obligation review of your protection needs. Let us help you build the fortress your family deserves.

Related guides

UK Insulin Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
UK Insulin Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
Read more →
UK Metabolic Crisis Half of Adults At Risk
UK Metabolic Crisis Half of Adults At Risk
Read more →
UK Metabolic Health Crisis Nearly Half of Adults At Risk
UK Metabolic Health Crisis Nearly Half of Adults At Risk
Read more →
UK Insulin Crisis 1 in 3 Britons At Risk
UK Insulin Crisis 1 in 3 Britons At Risk
Read more →
UK Insulin Crisis 2 in 5 At Risk
UK Insulin Crisis 2 in 5 At Risk
Read more →
UK Insulin Resistance Half of Britons At Risk
UK Insulin Resistance Half of Britons At Risk
Read more →

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London