When it comes to safeguarding your income, choosing the right insurer is crucial. At Red Star Financial Services, we collaborate with providers who prioritise reliability, transparency, and genuine value. One such provider is British Friendly Society Limited, renowned for their personal approach and commendable track record.
If you’re exploring income protection insurance in the UK, here’s why British Friendly stands out and why they’re among our trusted partners.
A Century-Long Commitment to Members
Established in 1902 in Bedford, England, British Friendly began by offering sickness benefits to commercial travelers. Over the past 120+ years, they’ve evolved into specialists in income protection, consistently prioritizing their members’ well-being. As a mutual society, they have no shareholders, ensuring that profits are reinvested to enhance member services and support.
Impressive Claims Record
Trust in an insurer is built on their claims history. British Friendly’s statistics speak volumes:
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86% of new income protection claims were paid in 2024, amounting to over £5 million in payouts. Source
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Over the past two decades, they’ve maintained a 94% average claims payout rate. Source
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In 2024, they accepted 1,023 new claims, with the majority stemming from musculoskeletal issues, surgeries, and respiratory conditions. Source
Such transparency and consistency underscore their commitment to supporting members during challenging times.
Flexible and Inclusive Policy Options
British Friendly offers a range of policies tailored to diverse needs:
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Protect: A traditional income protection policy with options for short-term or long-term coverage.
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Breathing Space: Designed for those with irregular incomes, such as self-employed individuals, offering simplified underwriting. Learn more
Key features include:
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Coverage for a wide array of occupations, including manual roles.
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Deferred periods starting from day one.
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Options for level or increasing cover.
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No premium loadings for smokers or manual workers.
This flexibility ensures that more individuals can access the protection they need.
Value-Added Member Benefits
Beyond standard coverage, British Friendly provides additional support through:
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Mutual Benefits: A discretionary program offering services like virtual GP consultations, physiotherapy, mental health support, and discounts on everyday spending. Learn more
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BF Care: Financial assistance for life-altering events, including death, terminal illness, and recovery support. Details here
These benefits enhance the overall value of membership, offering support even when no claim is made.
Efficient and Compassionate Service
British Friendly emphasizes prompt and empathetic service:
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Average claim processing time in 2024 was nine working days. Source
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Introduction of a tele-claims service has streamlined the claims process, eliminating the need for traditional forms. More info
Such initiatives reflect their dedication to member convenience and care.
Our Commitment to Finding the Right Protection for You
At Red Star Financial Services, while we hold British Friendly in high regard, we also collaborate with a range of reputable providers. Our goal is to assess your unique circumstances and recommend the most suitable income protection solution tailored to your needs.
Contact us today for a comprehensive review and let us help you secure the protection you deserve.
Note: All information is accurate as of April 2025. For the most current details, please refer to the respective sources.