Without a sufficient financial buffer, an unforeseen health issue could be catastrophic
In the current economic climate, financial stability seems more out of reach than ever for many households across the UK. Recent research reveals a significant gap between our desire for security and the actions we actually take to attain it. Half of the UK’s workforce admits they would feel much more financially resilient if they had cover in place to protect their income should they be unable to work due to illness or injury[1].
Despite recognising its importance, a significant gap remains. Only 27% of UK workers currently have an Income Protection policy. This gap shows that while we understand the concept of a safety net, far too few have actually established one. Income Protection is often regarded as a luxury or an afterthought, but the data demonstrates it should be an essential part of modern financial planning.
Complex web of financial reliance
The importance of this type of cover becomes evident when we consider who depends on our income. The data show a complex network of financial reliance. On average, each worker supports three dependents who rely directly on their earnings. This burden often goes beyond children and partners; three in ten workers (29%) also care for a pet that depends on them for food, shelter and wellbeing. Among parents with older children, nearly half support the same number of dependents, indicating that financial responsibility does not necessarily end when children reach adulthood.
This burden is rarely borne alone, but that shared load comes with its own risks. The report emphasises that financial vulnerability is common among couples. Nearly half (45%) of working couples rely on both incomes just to meet monthly living costs. For younger workers aged 18 to 24, this reliance increases to 70%. The real concern is clear: if one partner could no longer work, many households would face immediate and serious financial hardship.
Rising tide of household debt
Exacerbating this vulnerability are rising living costs and increasing debt levels. The report highlights that household debt has been escalating, with the average debt rising by £1,734 from 2023 to 2024 to reach £20,640. As debt grows, savings remain static or decrease. One-third of UK workers have less than £5,000 in savings, nearly a quarter have less than £1,000 and just under one in ten have no savings at all.
For those with a limited financial buffer, an unexpected health problem can be disastrous. This is when Income Protection becomes essential. It offers a regular, tax-free monthly income during periods of illness or injury, providing not just money but genuine financial peace of mind. This safety net helps cover key costs such as rent, mortgage payments, utilities and other living expenses when you are unable to work.
Closing the protection gap
The research also highlights a significant ‘protection gap’ affecting renters, women and single parents. These groups often stand to lose the most from income loss but are usually the least protected. Income Protection isn’t only for the wealthy or the primary breadwinner; it’s for anyone whose life could be affected by a loss of temporary or permanent income.
As the cost of living crisis continues to affect households across the UK, people are becoming increasingly aware of their financial vulnerability. With rising energy bills, rent and mortgage payments, the stakes have never been higher. Having an Income Protection policy offers crucial financial security, turning a potential financial crisis into a manageable situation.
This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice.
Source data:
[1] LV= Reaching Resilience report: the data used come from a survey of 2,720 nationally representative UK workers, conducted for LV= by Opinium between 15–25 October 2024.
