If you work, your employer may have a scheme that provides cover if you’re ill for a long period of time and cannot work. However, this might only provide you with money for a limited time, usually will not cover your full wage and the amount you receive may decrease the longer you are off work.

Some companies also provide cover if you die whilst you’re employed by them (known as death in service benefits). What companies do and don’t provide is up to the individual employer so you’ll need to check with your line manager or HR representative for details of what’s available to you. Don’t just assume that, because you have this cover at work, it will be enough.

Also, if you’re self-employed, or in a job with limited or no sick pay, you need to think very carefully how you would cope financially if you lost your income. Making your own arrangements may be the only guaranteed way of safeguarding yourself against the unexpected.