The policy – which covers accidental injuries as standard – now includes both an income and hospital benefit under the sickness option, paying out for new sickness claims at the same benefit levels as paid for accidental injuries.
There will be no medical questions when adding the sickness cover; instead, there will be a ‘yes' or ‘no' option as to whether sickness cover is to be added.
The income benefit under Friendly Shield now covers accidents only or includes sickness alongside a hospital cash benefit for overnight stays, fracture cover, both natural and accidental death benefits, and a rehabilitation benefit to help policyholders get back to work sooner.
The hospital cash benefit for sickness – available under all levels of Friendly Shield: Bronze, Silver, and Gold – has a nine-month qualifying period at the start of the policy, whereas accident-only is available immediately.
A policyholder's spouse or child will be able to claim the hospital benefit for sickness, following the nine-month waiting period, as well as accidental injury.
The amount of cover received will depend on whether a Bronze, Silver or Gold level of cover is selected. Any conditions that a policyholder has been treated for in the past 18 months will not be covered under the sickness income benefit, which the provider said will ensure an affordable price.
Graham Singleton, chief executive officer, National Friendly, said: "Enhancing Friendly Shield with the option of sickness cover provides even more flexibility and value to our members. This addition reflects our commitment to listening to advisers and adapting our products to meet the changing needs of customers."
"By offering this optional benefit with no medical questions or disclosures required, we aim to make vital financial protection accessible to the widest possible audience—particularly those who may not have access to traditional income protection solutions."
National Friendly said the product covers everyday risks rather than extreme, low-likelihood catastrophe risks.
The product, which has been designed following adviser feedback, is aimed at consumers who may not typically be able to afford traditional protection products or who do not have a need for full income protection, according to the mutual.
Singleton said, "In today's uncertain economic climate, people need affordable, simple, and comprehensive protection. Friendly Shield's new features are designed to provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing unexpected challenges—whether due to accident or sickness—won't derail their financial stability. It's another step in our mission to ensure that more individuals and families can safeguard their futures without unnecessary barriers."
First appeared: https://www.covermagazine.co.uk/news/4395692/national-friendly-adds-sickness-cover-friendly-shield
