If a serious illness stops you from working, could your household afford to keep going? Critical illness cover gives you the financial protection to focus on recovery, not bills.

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What is critical illness cover?

Critical illness cover is a type of insurance that pays out a tax-free lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness listed in the policy, such as:

  • Cancer
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Organ failure
  • Major surgery
  • Permanent disability (from illness or injury)

The payout can be used however you need, to cover mortgage repayments, pay household bills, fund treatment, or give yourself time to recover without financial pressure.

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Why critical illness cover matters

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Many people think, “it won’t happen to me”, but illness can strike at any age, and with most households dependent on two incomes, even a few months off work could cause real financial strain.

Critical illness cover is especially important if:

  • You’d struggle to keep up with your mortgage or rent without your income
  • You have children or dependents relying on your salary
  • You’re self-employed and don’t receive sick pay
  • You don’t have substantial savings to fall back on
  • You want financial breathing space if you need to recover long-term

Life insurance vs critical illness cover, what’s the difference?

  • Life insurance pays out if you pass away during the policy term.
  • Critical illness cover pays out while you're still alive, if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness.

They can be combined or bought separately, depending on your needs. Life insurance protects your family if the worst happens, and critical illness cover protects your income and lifestyle if your health takes a turn.

checking report from illness

The benefits of working with a specialist

Buying critical illness cover isn’t as simple as ticking a box. Not all policies cover the same conditions, and the level of cover varies significantly.

We explain your options in plain English, no jargon, no guesswork

We compare policies across the market, not just from one insurer

We tailor your protection to match your mortgage, income, and family needs

We highlight key terms and exclusions, so you know exactly what you’re getting

We handle the application for you, saving time and reducing hassle

Is critical illness cover worth it?

If you're asking yourself:

  • “What if I couldn’t work for a year?”
  • “Would we lose the house if I had to stop earning?”
  • “Could we afford childcare and bills if I got sick?”

Then the answer is: yes, it’s worth considering.

Many people insure their phone or their car, but forget to protect what actually pays for those things: their health and income. Critical illness cover helps bridge the gap when life takes an unexpected turn.

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Next steps

Book a free, no-obligation appointment with a Jigsaw adviser today. We’ll talk through your circumstances, review any cover you already have, and help you decide if critical illness cover is the right fit.

There’s no pressure to commit, just helpful, professional advice so you can make an informed decision.

How can we help you?

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