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Group Critical Illness Cover Quote

Ready to compare Group Critical Illness Cover policies?

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British Life connects you to Group Critical Illness cover that protects your employees when serious illness strikes. Get expert guidance and whole-of-market access without any fees.

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Protect your team when it matters most

Critical illnesses such as cancer, heart attack and stroke can devastate your employees' finances overnight. Without proper cover, your valued team members face mounting medical costs while recovering. You risk:

Start your quote today to make sure your people get the financial support they need to focus on recovery.

What is a Group Critical Illness policy?

Group Critical Illness cover is a policy your company takes out for your employees.

If an employee is diagnosed with a specified serious illness (such as cancer, stroke, major organ transplant or heart attack), they receive a tax-free lump-sum payment directly. This money can be used however they choose: on mortgage payments, medical costs, household bills, rehabilitation support services during their recovery, and more.

Because the policy is:

Your employees receive financial support without:

Group Critical Illness pays when your people need it most.

British Life promises a UK Group Critical Illness comparison

With British Life, you get the following:

Key features at a glance

A well-designed Group Critical Illness policy typically offers:

Your adviser will search for policies with the benefit levels, covered conditions and wellbeing support that match your workforce demographics and budget.

3 steps to confidence in your Group Critical Illness plan

Getting the right Group Critical Illness insurance is simpler than you think:

How would it feel knowing your team won't face financial hardship during the toughest moments of their lives?

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"Group Critical Illness works differently than most people realise...

It's not just about the lump-sum payment but what happens in the weeks after diagnosis. We've spoken with employees who've faced breast cancer, aggressive prostate cancer and heart attacks, and the immediate moment of diagnosis brings so many financial worries.

British Life connects you with advisers who find a policy that best fits your business, not just the cheapest. It's about ensuring your people get genuine support when life throws its worst at them."

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James

James Stait,
British Life

How Group Critical Illness cover works

You'll also get clear guidance on how the claim process works in practice. It will cover common definitions for conditions such as cancer (covering a primary but advanced tumour, lobular breast cancer and ongoing cancer cover), what constitutes a valid claim and typical exclusions, including injury that is self-inflicted or a direct or indirect result of drug or alcohol abuse.

Free Guide: The Business Leader’s Guide to Financial Protection

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Compare Group Critical Illness providers for your business

Your employees are your most valuable asset. If serious illness strikes, they shouldn't have to worry about finances while dealing with health challenges. Yet many businesses either have no Group Critical Illness cover, or they have policies with gaps that become apparent only when someone needs to claim.

British Life connects you with FCA-authorised advisers who specialise in group protection across the UK. They compare all providers in the market to secure Group Critical Illness insurance that genuinely protects your team. Your adviser finds a policy with proper coverage for the conditions that matter, wellbeing support that helps your employees during recovery and benefit levels that provide real financial security.

You'll know your people are properly protected. Your team will feel valued. Your business will be known as an employer who genuinely cares.

Discover how straightforward Group Critical Illness cover can be. Start your quote today.

Start Your Quote Today

Get your Group Critical Illness quote today, and show your team they're genuinely valued.

Start Your Quote

Prefer to speak to someone?

Call our UK-based team on 0333 987 3960 (Mon-Fri, 9am-7pm) and we’ll connect you with an FCA-authorised adviser.

Frequently asked questions about Group Critical Illness cover

How much does Group Critical Illness cover cost?+

British Life's service is completely free. The advisers we connect you with are paid by insurers only when they secure appropriate cover for your business. The premiums paid depend on your group size, employee demographics, benefit levels and coverage amount. Larger groups typically secure better rates. Your adviser aims to work within your budget to find suitable protection.

What conditions does Group Critical Illness insurance cover?+

Most policies cover major conditions, including cancer (breast cancer, prostate cancer), heart attack, stroke and major organ transplant. Extended cover often includes terminal illness, total permanent disability and chronic illnesses. Advanced policies may include child-specific conditions, partner cover and second or subsequent diagnosis. Your adviser explains exactly which serious illnesses each provider covers and what triggers a valid claim.

Can employees with pre-existing conditions get cover?+

Yes. Group Critical Illness policies are underwritten based on the group's overall profile, not individual medical history. Employees who might struggle to get personal critical illness cover due to pre-existing conditions or medical history often gain protection through the group scheme. However, policies typically exclude claims for conditions the employee knew about at policy start, though this varies by insurer.

How does the compensation work if an employee makes a claim?+

When an employee is diagnosed with a covered condition and meets the policy criteria, they receive a tax-free lump-sum payment directly. The compensation amount is set when you purchase the policy (either a fixed sum, such as £50,000, or a salary multiple such as 2x an employee's annual salary). This money is paid to the employee to use as they choose, for example, on mortgage payments, medical costs, household bills or rehabilitation support. The payment is separate from any sick pay or other benefits an employee receives.

How does Group Critical Illness cover work with our existing benefits?+

Group Critical Illness insurance pays a separate lump sum, in addition to other benefits. It works alongside group income protection (ongoing income replacement), group life insurance (pays on death) and private medical insurance (covers treatment costs). Your adviser explains how Group Critical Illness cover integrates with your current benefits package, including any sick pay arrangements already in place.

What support do employees get beyond the lump-sum payment?+

Modern policies include extensive wellbeing benefits, such as 24/7 GP access, mental health support, emotional support helplines, second medical opinions and rehabilitation support services. These activate from diagnosis, providing practical help throughout recovery. Some policies also include ongoing support for extended treatment, access to specialists and help navigating NHS services and the Cancer Drugs Fund.

What happens if an employee leaves the company?+

Cover typically ends when employment ends. However, some insurers offer portability options that allow departing employees to continue their critical illness policy personally but usually at a higher premium and subject to new terms. Your adviser will explain which providers offer this flexibility.

Are you looking for...

Group Critical Illness Cover

This type of policy providers cover for employees of a business in the event of a serious illness like cancer, stroke or heart disease, or even death. It is particularly advantageous to employees who might struggle to get cover for critical illness or life insurance in a personal capacity as the underwriting is based on the number and age profile of the employees, not their lifestyle or medical history.
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Features:

  • Coverage for Critical Illnesses: Provides financial protection against a range of serious conditions, such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, and organ transplants. Some policies may include additional illnesses or surgical procedures.
  • Tax-Free Lump Sum: Offers employees a one-off payment upon diagnosis of a covered illness to help manage financial challenges.
  • Dependent Cover Options: Some policies extend coverage to an employee's spouse or children, providing additional support.
  • Customizable Plans: Employers can tailor the policy to align with their budget, offering fixed lump sums or coverage based on salary multiples.
  • Additional Services: Policies often come with added benefits such as virtual healthcare consultations, mental health support, and second medical opinions.
  • Flexible Funding: Can be employer-funded, employee-funded, or cost-shared between employer and employee.

Benefits:

  • Employee Support: Employees gain peace of mind knowing they have financial assistance during challenging times.
  • Attract and Retain Talent: A robust benefits package sets your company apart, helping to attract and retain skilled employees.
  • Boost Morale and Productivity: Employees feel valued, fostering loyalty and reducing stress, which can positively impact productivity.
  • Corporate Responsibility: Demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing, enhancing your company's reputation.
  • Financial Security: Helps employees manage costs associated with treatment, rehabilitation, or lifestyle changes.
  • Reduced Absenteeism: With financial burdens eased, employees can focus on recovery, potentially shortening absence periods.

Group Critical Illness Cover is a powerful tool for fostering a supportive and resilient workplace culture.

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Group Income Protection

This type of policy provides financial protection in the form of income replacement (ie sick pay) for employees who are unable to work due to injury, short or long-term sickness or disability up to the age of retirement. As such it can represent a significant employee benefit to help recruit and retain employees.
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Features:

  • Income Replacement: GIP insurance provides a percentage of an employee's salary as a replacement income if they are unable to work due to a long-term illness or disability. This benefit is typically paid after a pre-defined waiting period, known as the deferred period.
  • Long-Term Coverage: GIP insurance typically covers an employee until retirement age or until they are fit to return to work, depending on the terms of the policy.
  • Rehabilitation Support: Many GIP policies include rehabilitation services to help employees recover and return to work as soon as it is medically possible. This can include access to medical professionals, vocational training, and other support services.
  • Flexible Benefit Options: Employers can often customize GIP insurance to suit their specific needs. They can choose the level of coverage, the waiting period before benefits are paid, and the length of time benefits will be provided.
  • Employee Assistance Programs: Some GIP policies include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide confidential counseling and support services to employees and their families for various personal and work-related issues.

Benefits:

  • Financial Security: GIP insurance provides employees with a reliable source of income when they are unable to work due to illness or disability. This helps them maintain their financial stability and meet their financial obligations.
  • Attract and Retain Talent: Offering GIP insurance as part of the employee benefits package can make a business more attractive to potential employees. It demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and provides a valuable safety net.
  • Reduce Absenteeism: GIP insurance can help reduce long-term absenteeism by providing employees with the support they need to recover and return to work. The rehabilitation services and support offered by GIP policies can facilitate a quicker return to work.
  • Employer Reputation: Providing GIP insurance shows that a business cares about its employees' welfare, which can enhance the company's reputation as an employer of choice.
  • Tax Benefits: In the UK, premiums paid for GIP insurance are generally tax-deductible for businesses, which can provide financial advantages.

It's important to note that the specific features and benefits of GIP insurance can vary depending on the insurance provider and policy terms. Businesses should carefully review policy details, coverage limits, exclusions, and waiting periods before selecting a GIP insurance plan. Consulting with an insurance professional or broker can help businesses find the most suitable coverage for their employees' needs.

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Group Business Health Insurance

This type of policy is designed to ensure directors and employees can seek expert medical attention promptly, namely faster than the NHS, so that they can return to work as soon as reasonably possible. Most policies include 24 Hour GP Access as standard. It acts as attractive benefit for potential new employees and a retention device for existing employees.
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Private health insurance for UK businesses offers several features and benefits that can be advantageous for both employers and employees. Here are some key features and benefits of private health insurance for UK businesses:

  • Prompt Access to Healthcare: One of the primary advantages of private health insurance is the ability to access medical services promptly. Private health insurance typically provides faster access to consultations, diagnostic tests, treatments, and surgeries, helping employees receive medical attention quickly and reducing waiting times compared to the NHS.
  • Choice of Specialists and Hospitals: Private health insurance allows employees to choose from a wide network of specialists, consultants, and hospitals. This gives individuals more control over their healthcare decisions and the freedom to select healthcare providers based on personal preferences, reputation, and expertise.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Private health insurance plans in the UK often offer extensive coverage, including consultations, diagnostic tests, hospital stays, surgeries, cancer treatments, mental health services, physiotherapy, and alternative therapies. Some plans may also cover dental and optical treatments as optional extras.
  • Employee Well-being and Morale: Offering private health insurance as an employee benefit demonstrates a commitment to the well-being and health of employees. It can boost morale, job satisfaction, and overall employee retention rates. Access to private healthcare services can also reduce absenteeism and help employees get back to work more quickly after illness or injury.
  • Reduced Waiting Times: In the UK's National Health Service (NHS), waiting times for certain procedures can be long. Private health insurance enables employees to bypass these waiting lists and receive treatment promptly, which can be especially valuable for non-urgent but necessary procedures that may cause discomfort or affect an individual's quality of life.
  • Access to Experimental Treatments: Private health insurance can sometimes provide access to new or experimental treatments and medications that may not be available through the NHS. This can be particularly important for individuals with complex or rare medical conditions who may benefit from innovative therapies.
  • Additional Services and Support: Many private health insurance providers offer additional services such as 24/7 helplines, nurse advice lines, mental health support, and health and wellness programs. These services can help employees manage their health proactively and provide guidance and support when needed.
  • Flexibility and Customization: Private health insurance plans can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a business and its employees. Employers can choose different levels of coverage, add optional extras, and often adjust the policy to suit their budget and requirements.

It's important for businesses to carefully consider the features, costs, coverage limits, exclusions, and network providers when selecting a private health insurance plan to ensure it aligns with their needs and the needs of their employees.

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Group Life Insurance

This type of policy (also known as Death-in-Service benefit) provides cover for employees across a business in the event of the death of one or more employees, whether working in the business or at any other time. It is particularly advantageous to employees who might struggle to gain life insurance on a personal basis as the underwriting is based on the number and age profile of the employees, not their lifestyle or medical history.
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Features:

  • Coverage for Employees: Group life insurance provides a lump sum payment to the designated beneficiaries of an employee in the event of their death during the coverage period. The coverage amount is typically based on a multiple of the employee's salary or a fixed amount chosen by the employer.
  • Group Coverage: Group life insurance covers a group of employees under a single policy, making it a cost-effective option for businesses. It simplifies the administration process as employees are enrolled automatically without the need for individual underwriting.
  • Flexible Coverage Options: Employers can choose different coverage levels based on their budget and the needs of their workforce. They can select a flat benefit amount or a multiple of the employee's salary.
  • Optional Add-ons: Some group life insurance policies offer additional options, such as spouse or partner coverage, which provides a benefit to the employee's significant other in the event of their death.

Benefits:

  • Financial Protection for Employees' Families: Group life insurance ensures that employees' families receive a financial safety net in the event of the employee's death. The lump sum payment can help cover funeral expenses, mortgage or rent payments, outstanding debts, and ongoing living expenses.
  • Employee Retention and Recruitment: Offering group life insurance as an employee benefit can enhance the overall benefits package, making the company more attractive to current and potential employees. It demonstrates the employer's commitment to the well-being of their workforce.
  • Peace of Mind: Group life insurance provides peace of mind to employees, knowing that their loved ones will be financially protected if they pass away. This can contribute to a positive work environment and employee satisfaction.
  • Tax Efficiency: In the UK, group life insurance policies are usually tax-efficient. The premiums paid by the employer are generally tax-deductible as a business expense, and the benefits received by employees' beneficiaries are usually tax-free, subject to certain conditions.
  • Supportive Bereavement Services: Some group life insurance policies provide additional support services for employees and their families, such as bereavement counseling or access to helplines for emotional support during difficult times.

It's important for businesses to carefully consider their specific needs, consult with insurance providers, and review policy terms and conditions to select the most suitable group life insurance coverage for their employees.

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Can’t decide?

For free advice, speak to a UK based adviser on
0333 987 3960* (9am-5pm Mon-Fri)

The telephone service is provided in partnership with BQI Protection Ltd and the quotation service is provided by an FCA-authorised insurance specialist

Now’s the time to protect your loved ones...

A British Life Company

Get Insured within 20 Minutes

It is possible to be protected with a life insurance or critical illness policy within 20 minutes provided the insurer does not require a GP report or medical.

A GP report or medical is normally required for large amounts of cover (over £400,000), or if your BMI is over 30, or you have any significant ongoing or past medical issues, or if you are involved in dangerous job or high risk hobby.

Calculate Your Cover

Find out how much cover you might need by using our simple online calculator. It will take into account your outstanding mortgage, any loans or credit cards, your monthly income and how many children you have.

Ultimately the right amount of cover is often a balance between what might be an ideal figure and what you can sensibly afford.

Calculate your cover here

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We have tracked down the very best protection insurance advisers in the UK to ensure you have access to great advice and the best products from the leading insurers.

Instead of pushy sales people, our advisers offer a more personalised service to guide you through the process and ensure you enjoy lasting peace of mind by making an informed choice.

The Service You’ll Receive

Outstanding service and knowledgeable customer service rep. I received a call as promised in my email. Marie was very knowledgeable in her subject matter, she took some basic details and was very polite and courteous in her manner.

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