Figures from the ABI have highlighted the importance of protection cover, as insurers paid out £7.84bn in individual and group protection claims in 2025 – this is equivalent to £21.5m every day.

Individual policies

The research found that 97.9% of individual claims resulted in a payout last year. It has remained at or above this level for the last decade, meaning that the vast majority of individual protection claims resulted in a payout. Insurers paid out £5.15bn in individual life insurance, income protection and critical illness claims, which is 3% lower than in 2024 but 22% higher than in 2022. The average payout was £19,300 last year, up 2% on 2024.

Work absences on the rise

A recent survey by WTW shows that employee absence has reached the highest level in a decade in the UK. Half (51%) of UK employers have reported a rise in short-term absence over the last two years, while 55% noted an increase in long-term absence and disability. Mental health and workplace stress remain major concerns, alongside musculoskeletal (MSK) issues and chronic conditions. These findings tie in with the stats from the Association of British Insurers (ABI), which show that MSK conditions are the most common reason for income protection claims.

Claims for mental health

Awareness about mental health is growing, which has likely contributed to more people feeling able to take time off work when they are unable to cope. Last year, insurers paid out £39m in income protection claims to support those with mental health conditions, accounting for 19% of all claims paid.

The importance of income protection

Last year, 7,600 people who had made an income protection claim were able to return to work with the support of their payouts and other health services provided by their insurer. Meanwhile, more employers are recognising the importance of group protection policies, providing their employees with financial support if they are unable to work. Some of these group policies also provide rehabilitation support, helping employees return to work safely.

Protection is invaluable

Rebecca Ward, Assistant Director, Head of Health and Protection at the ABI emphasised the value of protection cover: “Protection insurance remains a cornerstone of financial resilience, helping customers and their loved ones navigate life’s most difficult moments. Each year, income protection, critical illness and life insurance policies provide vital financial support to thousands of people facing bereavement, illness or injury.”

Here to help

Our experts can ensure you and your family are adequately protected – contact us for advice today.

As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply

Sources:
https://www.abi.org.uk/media-hub/news-post/protection-insurers-pay-out-7-84-billion-to-help-customers-safeguard-their-finances
https://www.wtwco.com/en-gb/insights/2026/04/optimising-absence-management-in-the-uk-the-role-of-group-income-protection

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash.

The Government recently announced changes to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations. The decision to remove the deadlines has raised questions about its future impact and the influence this has on landlords.

EPC regulation changes

EPC regulations require landlords to obtain an EPC rating when selling or renting a property.
The certificate rates a property from most efficient to least efficient, in the aim of guiding potential buyers and renters on the potential costs and overall energy efficiency of the property.

Despite the changes, properties still require an EPC rating although there is no longer a requirement for new tenancies to have a rating of C or above.

What does it mean for landlords?

Following the proposal reversal, landlords are no longer legally required to take any further action to improve their energy efficiency rating across their portfolio.

The Government is still recommending upgrades where possible, in support of its Net Zero target, however these remain recommendations until further notice.

It’s important to consider the demands of the market, with opportunities available to create a suitable property for tenants who want a more energy-efficient home.

Staying informed and prepared

While the discussions regarding EPC regulations continue, it’s essential for you to stay informed and prepare for potential changes. Consider reviewing your properties for energy-efficient opportunities, making improvements where feasible. This could be an excellent selling point to attract eco-conscious tenants.

Stay updated on any changes in regulations, as they may impact your obligations and opportunities. Be prepared for potential market shifts.

A general election could see EPC regulations make a potential return, so keeping your energy efficiency at a high level could set you apart in a competitive rental market.

For more information, contact us now and we can support you and discuss the options available to you.

As inflation remains high, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at how it could impact you. Whether you are behind on payments, looking to stretch your finances or coming to the end of your mortgage term, there are options available to help you.

What is inflation?

Put simply, inflation is the increase in price over time, acting as a measure of value of a currency. Tracked by several indicators, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which tracks the average cost of everyday items, inflation is well above the Bank of England target of 2%, a target which has been in place since 2012.
Soaring food and energy bills have driven inflation, with oil and gas demand increasing as a result of Covid and the war between Ukraine and Russia.

How does it affect me and my mortgage?

To combat high inflation, the Bank of England raise interest rates to encourage saving. This makes borrowing more expensive and higher monthly payments for those with mortgages.

If you are on a variable rate mortgage, this level of inflation and high interest rates will be increasing your monthly payments, with your cash no longer stretching as far as it previously had. However, many homeowners are on fixed-rate mortgages.

As a result, monthly payments will not change for the duration of that mortgage product.

Is your fixed-rate mortgage product coming to an end?

It’s important to remain cautious around interest rates, even if they do start to come down. Variations in rates can make it hard to navigate the complexities of the mortgage market. It’s important that you start planning your mortgage options at least six months before the end of the fixed rate period.

Consulting with your mortgage adviser to determine which option suits your current financial goals and circumstances, can enable you to make informed decisions during these challenging times.

For more information, contact us and wecan support you and discuss the options available to you.

Following the new energy price cap setting, the amount suppliers can charge customers this winter will reduce, however, your bills may not change over the winter months. However, with the cost of living continuing to stay high there are other ways you may be able to save money this winter. To help you start the new year off right, here are some tips to help you save.

Keep it warm-ish…

Whether you are renting or have your own home, most of the energy we use goes on heating, especially during the winter months. Turning your thermostat down by one degree and switching your heating off when the house is empty, could help you save around £125 per year.

However, it is important to keep your home warm with a recommended room temperature of at least 18C. If you are older, disabled or ill, you may require a warmer temperature. If your house is too cold it could encourage damp and mould, which could lead to respiratory illnesses, infections or allergies.

Winter Showers -The warm kind!

Installing a water-efficient showerhead or reducing the length of showers to four minutes could help you save around £130 per year.

Some water suppliers have a variety of free resources to help you save water, so it’s worth taking a look to see if your water supplier can support you.

Check your Radiators

Radiators are another way you can save money, if used correctly. Turning down radiator valves in rooms you may use the least, could help you save £50 per year. Keeping doors closed will also help trap the heat in the room, allowing you to reduce the radiator temperature.

Lose the draughts and damp

Another effective method in helping you save money, is through draught-proofing doors, windows, floors and chimneys. This method is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and could help you save up to £155 per year.

Consider installing draft-proofing strips around doors and windows, a letter-box cover, sealant to close floorboard and skirting board gaps and a chimney draft excluder on unused chimneys.

When making these changes, do not block extractor fans, wall vents and airbricks, typically found in your kitchen and bathroom, as these are necessary for ventilation.

It is important to note that savings will vary for different households, and there may be refinancing options available for large scale changes.

If you want to look at your refinancing options to support energy efficiancy, contact us and we can support you and discuss the options available to you.

There is no better feeling than giving your loved ones a gift, especially over the festive season. Is there any greater gift than protecting your family’s future? Why not put a little extra thought into your gifts this year and give you and your loved ones peace of mind?

The gift that keeps giving

All year we work hard to provide our loved ones with everything they need; a roof over their head, food on the table and all the little things throughout the year.

Life insurance ensures that you can still contribute to the lives of those you love, should the worst happen to you. Life insurance is important to you because your family is important to you.
Spending your hard-earned money on life insurance might not be as exciting, but it could prove to be valuable in the future.

Whether it is replacing lost income, securing your child’s education or making sure your partner is supported, life insurance plans can offer an essential lifeline when needed most.

How much will it cost me?

Life insurance plans are based on a variety of criteria including lifestyle, health, age and the amount you want to cover. These policies often require regular premium payments over an extended period of time, as life insurance is a long-term commitment.

According to the website iaminsured, the average cost is around £38 per month with
some plans starting from as little as £5 per month. This is a small price to pay which allows your family and loved ones to have financial security for the future.

Preparing for the future

If you have a partner or children, life insurance can provide you with the peace of mind that they will be able to cope financially without you. Think of it as a way to prepare for the future and the unexpected possibilities that might happen.

So, whether you have planned ahead or are still thinking of what to get your loved ones this year, don’t be a scrooge, take a moment to consider giving yourself and those you love a gift to show how much you care.

For more information, contact us now and we can discuss the options available to you.

Garage, loft, and cellar conversions are popular home improvement projects that can significantly enhance a property’s value. These transformations not only maximise the existing space but also satisfy the ever-growing demand for multi-purpose living areas.

Increased Living Space

One of the most apparent benefits of these conversions is the addition of valuable living space. With property prices high, making the most of every square foot is essential. Converting garages, lofts, or cellars into usable spaces, such as bedrooms, home offices, or entertainment areas, can significantly boost a property’s appeal and value.

Adaptability to Changing Needs

As families grow or lifestyles change, the demand for adaptable living space becomes crucial. Conversions
offer flexibility to create rooms tailored to the homeowner’s specific requirements. A loft turned into an extra bedroom, or a cellar transform

Energy Efficiency

Many garage, loft, and cellar conversions involve upgrading insulation and implementing energy-efficient features, aligning with the increasing focus on sustainable housing.
Homebuyers are often drawn to properties with lower running costs, making energy-efficient conversions more appealing and potentially increasing the property’s overall value, as well as improving the EPC rating.

Enhanced Aesthetics and Functionality

Conversions offer the opportunity to create bespoke spaces with unique designs and features. A well-designed conversion can elevate a property’s aesthetics and functionality, making it stand out in the competitive housing market.

In prime urban areas, where space is at a premium, a well-executed conversion can be a key selling point, leading to higher demand and increased house value. There are a variety of ways you can fund these projects, with remortgaging being just one of these options.

How to set about funding the project

There are a few ways to use the capital within your home, but each option has its specific pro’s and con’s. A lot will depend on how long you have had your current mortgage deal, and how close you are to renewing your fixed rate, but we look at all options when we discuss cases for home improvements.

If you’d like to discuss the options available to you, contact us today!

Throughout the years there have been multiple facts and figures published, highlighting the impact of smoking on your health. It’s no secret that your smoking status will significantly influence your chances of suffering from certain conditions, which is why critical illness cover (CIC) is so important.

Is CIC worth it?

Smoking can increase the risk of suffering from cancers, heart attacks, strokes, heart diseases and more. Critical Illness Cover is designed to pay a lump sum if you get a serious illness, injury or can’t work.
Many CIC policies are partnered with life insurance, however you are able to get separate cover allowing you to decide how much cover you need and for how long.

Consider getting CIC if you and your family heavily depend on your income, you don’t have enough savings to cover you should you become seriously ill or disabled, or you don’t have an employee package to cover time off work. You may not need CIC if you have no financial commitments or have a partner who can cover living costs and commitments, should you become seriously ill.

How does it work?

You will typically be asked to complete a health questionnaire during the application process, alongside a review of your medical records.

It’s essential to state all existing health conditions when you apply. These details will then be considered to determine how much you need to pay.

Once active, you can make one claim if you’re diagnosed with a specific illness. This tax-free lump sum can be used for anything you like, whether you want to pay off the mortgage, cover lost income or health-related costs.

What should I watch out for?

There are scenarios where a policy won’t pay out at all. Most policies will exclude claims where an illness is a result of self-harm, alcohol and/or drug abuse or taking part in extreme sports.

Time limits may also be in place, such as not being able to claim within the first 90 days or if you die within a month of being diagnosed with a critical illness.

If you want to know more or find the best deal, contact us to take you through the details of the policies available and help you choose the right one.

In July, both two and five-year fixed-rate deals dropped by 0.02% for the first time since May. Although the forecast for further changes is uncertain, the initial drop in rates is promising and could lead to a more favourable environment to help prospective buyers if rates continue to fall in 2023.

How does this impact me?

Despite a small fall in rates, it’s a promising sign for the future with further rates potentially falling. With reduced borrowing costs, the barriers to homeownership diminish, allowing aspiring buyers to afford a home loan and lock in lower monthly mortgage payments.

Falling rates can also be advantageous for existing homeowners looking to upgrade to a more desirable property. Current homeowners are able to sell their homes more easily, as potential buyers look to enter the market with affordable financing.

The main benefit of lower rates is the opportunity to refinance existing mortgages. If you’re on a fixed-rate mortgage, you may choose to refinance your loan and secure a cheaper rate to reduce monthly payments or shorten the term. Despite the current rates falling by only a small amount, the results can be significant with an increase to long-term savings and financial flexibility.

However, it is important to speak with your adviser before making any decision, as it may be that to exit your current fixed rate product incurs Early Repayment Charges (ERCs) which would make switching not worth it.

Approach with caution

Being cautious around interest rates, even if they come down further, is crucial. If interest rates are on a downward trend they can shoot back up again without warning, especially during a period of economic instability.

Homeowners could continue to face higher monthly repayments until we see a significant decline in interest rates, continuing to limit the ability to save or invest in other areas.

Fluctuations in rates could lead to uncertainty for both current and potential mortgage holders. To navigate the complexities of the mortgage market, you should remain cautious, seeking professional financial advice. A thorough understanding of how the interest rates impact mortgages will allow you to make informed decisions during changing economic conditions.

For more information, contact us and we can support you and discuss the options available to you.

New research highlights an ‘alarming link’ between the rising costs of living and declining health across the UK population. The protection industry can have a positive influence, providing the tools to help you manage your health in 2023.

Cost-of-living pressure

The cost-of-living pressure could trigger a global health crisis, with the current economic environment having a considerable impact on the health and wellbeing of the nation. Reports found that 45% of UK adults believe it has become too expensive to stay healthy, with 12% experiencing increased medical expenses. Research also found that 73% of 16–24-year-olds are stressed about the rising cost of staying healthy.

Protection: How it can keep you healthy

Most comprehensive protection plans can help you and your family stay healthy, despite cost-of-living pressure. Most insurance providers throughout the UK offer a variety of services, from nutrition to fitness and everything in between, helping to achieve a healthier lifestyle and reduce the risk of illness.

Additional added-value benefits, such as second medical opinions, health checks and gym membership
discounts, can keep you healthy throughout the current economic crisis.

Protection plans can also improve your mental health, so it’s crucial to make the most of the support available to you. Many people don’t utilise their cover, so it’s worth checking the added-value benefits available to you whether you already have a plan or if you are looking for one.

Time to take action

It’s never too late to protect you and your family. The earlier you start looking at the options available to you, the sooner you can work towards building a healthy lifestyle and fight back against the cost-of-living. There’s nothing more important than your physical and mental health, so what are you waiting for?

For more information, contact us so we can support you and discuss the options available to you.

While an IVA can provide much-needed debt relief and help avoid bankruptcy, it can have a significant impact on your credit file. It’s important to understand the impact it may have on you.

What is an IVA?

An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding agreement between an individual and their creditors. It is a formal bankruptcy solution, allowing you to repay debts over a fixed period of time.

When entering into an IVA, it is recorded on your credit file by credit reference agencies. This means that lenders and other financial institutions will be able to see that you’re on an IVA when conducting a credit check. The IVA will be listed on your credit file for a period of six years, even if the IVA itself is completed sooner.

How can it impact me?

The presence of an IVA is likely to make it more difficult to obtain credit during the term of the IVA and for some time afterwards. Lenders may view you as a higher risk borrower due to the history of financial difficulty and, as a result, may be less willing to extend credit or offer favourable terms.

It’s important to note that an IVA is considered a serious form of insolvency and is therefore a red flag to lenders. The exact impact on the credit score will vary depending on individual circumstances and the credit scoring model used by each credit reference agency.

However, the impact of an IVA on your credit is not permanent. Once the IVA is completed and all obligations are fulfilled, it will be marked as satisfied on the credit file. While the IVA will still be visible for the six-year period, its impact may reduce over time as you demonstrate responsible financial behaviour.

Further considerations

Having an IVA may also affect any future income or assets. For example, if you move house during an IVA, any money you make as profit from the sale of your property might have to be paid into the IVA.

If your income goes up while you have an IVA, you have to declare it to your insolvency consultant.

We offer a free credit report appraisal service with no obligation HERE and are happy to carry out a full financial appraisal if you are thinking about taking an IVA. Contact us for a free, no obligation and confidential chat about your situation.