Concerns have been raised after new research has revealed that 'modern families' are significantly less likely to be protected in the event of death or critical illness. 

 

The research conducted by Sainsbury's Life Insurance using government data classes modern families as single parents, unmarried parents and people living in same sex partnerships. 

 

They found that just 32% of single parent families have life insurance, 31% of unmarried parents and 23% of same sex parent families. These figures are compared with the 50% of married families that have cover. 

 

Helen Williams, Head of Sainsbury’s Life Insurance said: “Worryingly, our research suggests modern family units are much less likely to protect their dependents with life insurance or critical illness cover than the traditional notion of a stereotypical family. Whatever the make-up of your family, it’s important to ensure you and your dependants are financially protected. Having life insurance and critical illness cover gives you peace of mind that if you or your partner dies or cannot work due to illness, you could have one less thing to worry about at a difficult time.”