Biba backs government's equality proposals

Biba has welcomed the new policy statement from the government’s equality office which proposes new measures to help ensure that customers get the insurance they need.

The proposed new laws (see: Exemptions won from age bill) will make it compulsory for insurance providers who decline to provide cover, to refer customers to a more appropriate source, like a specialist insurance broker, or to a signposting system.

Biba describes ‘signposting’ as a way of helping consumers who are turned down at point of sale (telephone, internet, face to face) to be directed to an independent source of information that can offer assistance in finding the relevant insurance cover.

Signposting will greatly benefit customers who may be considered as non standard risks, such as younger driver, Biba said. Currently when these customers are refused cover by an insurer they are left to continue their search alone without knowledge that insurance is available or where to obtain it. The signposting/referral system will be of particular help with motor and travel insurance as these are the areas identified where some people have difficulty finding an insurance policy.

Biba , which has been calling for greater assistance for customers, said it is "delighted" that signposting will become compulsory. Biba already has an established ‘Find a Broker’ helpline and website that already helps customers to find a specialist insurance broker who can provide suitable insurance.

However, Biba believes there are many more consumers who are refused cover from comparison sites and direct insurers who are unaware of this helpful service and that an insurance broker can insure them.

Graeme Trudgill, Biba technical and corporate affairs executive, said: “There is a solution through insurance brokers who can cover extremely difficult risks. It really is just a case of knowing where to go. This new requirement for signposting, once introduced, will help customers to find the protection they need, otherwise they run the risk of travelling uninsured, we know of some that have even decided not to go on holiday as they could not find insurance.”

Peter Staddon, Biba head of technical services, added: “Biba will continue to work with the Government to ensure the appropriate signposting and referral systems are put in place.”