An inclusive protection proposition for customers disclosing a mental illness is at the forefront of our underwriting philosophy with the introduction of new digital rules on disclosures made during life and critical illness applications.

Clients disclosing mental illness issues during applications are now more likely to receive cover at standard terms and the results so far are encouraging.

We have seen an increase of 10% of applicants disclosing a mental illness receiving terms at application stage and 70% of applicants disclosing mental health issues receiving standard terms at application stage.

It is all part of our drive to trust the customer and to expand underwriting and inclusion. Seeking treatment for mental health is now seen as a positive for tackling the illness and not a barrier to a customer’s protection needs. We recognise that customers who have had historic thoughts of suicide or self-harm should have the opportunity to receive standard terms at application stage.

Our new approach means that in many cases there is no back-office underwriting and no need for a GP report. It also demonstrates how the evolution of our underwriting is further enhancing inclusivity and enabling more people to receive important protection cover.

Find out more here.