Life Insurance in the UK: Time to Close the Gender Gap
- Alex Shairp
- Dec 22, 2025
- 2 min read
Women are falling through the cracks when it comes to life insurance. A recent report revealed that one-third of women do not have a life insurance policy, compared with 16% of men. That means women are twice as likely to be uninsured. The significant gap needs attention.
The same report (Life Insurance Index) found that 29% of women have never been educated about life insurance, versus 18% of men. This lack of awareness may explain why twice as many women believe they can't afford life insurance compared to men.
Even among women who do have life insurance, 29% are unsure how their policy would benefit loved ones in the event of their death.
WHY LIFE INSURANCE MATTERS
Life insurance provides financial security for partners and families in the form of a lump sum or regular payments if the policyholder dies during its term (with premiums up to date). In fact, life insurance claimants received £4 billion in payouts last year (data from Association of British Insurers and Group Risk Development).
The amount paid out depends on the level of cover you choose. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your policy should reflect your personal needs. Other protection options, such as critical illness cover or income protection, can also provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
Many people take out life insurance when they buy a home, and some mortgage providers make it a condition of the loan.
DON'T RISK BEING UNINSURED
Life insurance is a small price for peace of mind. It ensures your loved ones are financially supported when they need it most.
READY TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY?
Contact Blackmount Private Wealth today for expert advice on life insurance and financial protection planning. We can make sure your family wealth is resilient and plug the UK life insurance gender gap.
The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. Financial protection policies typically have no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.
