We’ve rewritten our Individual Protection application questions to make it easier for clients with mild or moderate mental health disclosures to apply for our cover.
What have we changed?
- We’ve added a new mental health section to our application form, helping customers to more easily disclose any mental health issues
- We’ve simplified the way we ask questions by using everyday terms
Why have we made these changes?
- 1 in 10 of the insured population discloses a mental health condition of some kind1
- We want to help them get protected more easily
How will these changes help?
- We’re removing the stigma of mental health questions
- Our changes will help customers answer the questions appropriately
- We’ll reduce the risk of clients dropping out of the application process
This will improve access to insurance for many customers:
- Approximately 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem each year2
- In England, 1 in 6 people report a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week2
Summary of key changes
| Before | Now |
| Mental health questions, including those about anxiety and depression, were spread between different sections |
We’ve got three clear sections covering mental health, physical health and general health |
|
Both ‘thinking about’ and ‘attempting’ suicide or self-harm were combined in the same question |
We have now separated ‘thoughts’ versus ‘actual attempts’ which will enable us to consider more favourable terms for many customers. |
| Formal questions |
A more conversational, sensitive tone of voice |
| Readability rating – B1 |
Readability rating – A1 |
These changes will make underwriting consistent for both mental and physical health.
Please contact ipp.sales@canadalife.co.uk if you would like further information on our application journey and the changes we’re making.
1UnderwriteMe Forum, 2019
2How common are mental health problems? MIND, 2017