Life insurance is mainly about providing a lump sum or an income for you and your dependants should you die, suffer an accident or fall ill. In addition to this basic insurance cover, many policies also include an element of saving for the future.

Different policies provide different degrees of cover. Needs vary and so do costs. Picking the right policy for your particular circumstances involves deciding what you need, choosing the product or products that best satisfy those needs and shopping around for the best value.

The personal loss arising from death, accident or serious illness can never be compensated for, but it is possible to guard against the financial difficulties that any of those events can cause you or your family.