Like it or not, it is a fact that life never runs 100% according to plan.

Sometimes the glitches are minor – a cancelled train – and can be worked around easily. Other events, such as a serious illness, are much more difficult to deal with.

The insurance industry has developed a variety of ways to deal with some of the larger events on the ‘unexpected and unwelcome’ list. Some you are probably already familiar with, such as household insurance or car insurance. Others may be less well known to you, such as those that help protect you and your family against the financial consequences of illness and death.

This guide is designed to introduce you to the topic of protection. In the space available it can be no more than a brief outline of an often complex and specialised subject. For more detailed information, tailored to your personal circumstances, you should consult your financial adviser.

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