Critical Illness Insurance
No one likes to imagine being diagnosed with a serious illness - but the reality is, it happens more often than we think. Critical illness cover is designed to give you and your loved ones financial security at a time when you need it most.
At Birmingham Mortgage Hub, we believe this protection isn’t just about money - it’s about peace of mind. It’s knowing that if the worst happens to your health, you won’t have to worry about your family’s finances, your mortgage, or everyday living costs on top of everything else.
What is Critical Illness Cover?
Critical illness cover pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a set list of specified medical conditions, such as:
- Cancer (of a certain severity)
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Major organ transplant
…and many more (depending on the insurer and policy chosen).
You can use the payout however you choose - to pay off your mortgage, cover household bills, fund private treatment, or make home adjustments.
Additional Benefits You Might Not Know About
Modern policies often include valuable extras, such as:
- Children’s Critical Illness Cover – Many policies automatically include protection for your children.
- Advance Payments for Treatment – Some insurers release part of the benefit early for quicker access to treatment.
- Partial Payments for Early-Stage Conditions – Smaller payouts for less advanced illnesses to fund early treatment.
- Additional Payments for Severe Conditions – Higher payouts for the most serious diagnoses.
- Second Medical Opinions – Access to leading specialists for reassurance.
- Private Medical Treatment Options – Some policies include access to world-class care in the UK or abroad.
Why Consider Critical Illness Cover?
Unlike life insurance, which pays out only if you pass away, critical illness cover provides protection while you’re alive but facing a serious health challenge.
Common reasons to take out cover:
- Protect your mortgage and keep your home secure
- Replace lost income while you recover
- Support your family with childcare and household costs
- Cover future expenses like education or lifestyle adjustments
- Access additional benefits like private treatment and second opinions
Do I Really Need Critical Illness Cover?
If you have a mortgage, especially a joint one, critical illness cover can be a lifeline.
Serious illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke affect thousands of people every year - often during working age. Having cover means your family won’t face financial strain during an already difficult time.
Even without a mortgage, many people choose this cover to protect their family’s financial wellbeing.
Can Anyone Get Critical Illness Cover?
Much like life insurance, policies are subject to medical underwriting, which considers:
- Current and past health
- Lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol, high-risk hobbies)
- Family medical history
Some people may face higher premiums, exclusions, or even declines - but not all insurers are the same. At Birmingham Mortgage Hub, we work with a wide panel of providers, including specialists, so even if you’ve been declined elsewhere, we can often find a solution.
How 
can help
- Advice tailored to your mortgage, family and future plans
- Access to multiple insurers, including specialist providers
- Support if you’ve been declined due to health or lifestyle
- Clear guidance on policy conditions and definitions
- Help balancing affordability with the right level of protection
- Friendly, jargon-free advice focused on your family’s security
Ready to get started?
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Important information
For insurance business we offer products from a range of insurers.