One of the most common reasons for deciding against buying protection products is the mistaken belief that the benefits system will come to the rescue if it all goes pear-shaped. The truth is that you can no longer rely on the Government.

State benefits for a single person are currently under £60 per week. Could you manage on that? The typical state benefit for two adults with two children is £96 per week; the maximum is £134 per week. Could you support your family on this?

Since October 1995 new mortgage borrowers will receive no state help for the first nine months of unemployment or disability. Existing mortgage borrowers receive nothing for the first two months, only 50% for the next four months and then full benefit for mortgages of up to £100,000 provided they qualify for Income Support. The Government themselves estimate that 70% of mortgage borrowers will not get Income Support due to savings, income, or a working spouse or partner.

In 1998 alone, the introduction of a new incapacity criteria resulted in 102,000 claimants being turned down for state benefit. An independent doctor (not your own) will carry out your assessment and you must be incapable of doing any work, not just your normal job, to qualify for state benefit.