• One in four UK households are uninsured* – why take the risk?

    One in four UK households are uninsured* – why take the risk?

    This article was published on Thu 28 May 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    According to the Association British Insurers (ABI) Home Insurance Premium Tracker, one in four households across the UK, have no contents insurance protection. The ABI found the region with the most uninsured properties is London, where 45% have no contents cover at all. Their research also shows that renters, especially those in big cities, consider insuring their possessions as expensive or unnecessary. However, while individual items might not be of high value, if all possessions were added up it would equate to a significant sum should it need replacing all at once.

    Here are a few things to think about if you’re a renter:


    Contents insurance

    Even though it’s not a legal necessity, it’s always a good idea to insure anything you bring into the property yourself.

    At first glance, you might not think you have a lot that’s worth insuring. However, when you tot up all your clothes, books, CDs, DVDs, LPs, your TV, your crockery and gadgets, it comes to a sum that few people would have to hand if all those possessions needed to be replaced. A fire, a break-in or a flood could potentially spell financial problems. So, with that in mind, it makes a lot of sense to insure your contents.


    Add it up

    While it’s time-consuming to work out the total value of everything you own, it’s better to be thorough than just guess an amount.

    Go through your home, room by room, and add up the value of all your possessions if you had to replace them as new. Include all of your contents, not just the big-ticket items such as the TV and sofa.

    Be as accurate as you can – there are many online calculators available to help you get a better view of the value of the things that make your property a home.


    Added valuables

    The vast majority of contents insurance policies will have a single item limit. This is the maximum value of one single item covered in your policy. If you have an item that exceeds this amount, such as an engagement ring or valuable musical instrument, this will need to be declared separately from the rest of your contents.


    Home and away

    Obviously not all of your possessions spend all of their time in your home. Some, such as phones, jewellery and laptops, will be frequently taken out and about with you. It is possible to add cover for your possessions against damage or theft when they’re out of the home. This is generally not included in contents insurance policies as standard, but is widely available as an optional add on.


    Accidents will happen

    While most contents insurance policies cover you against damage that isn’t your fault, such as theft, fire or flood, they may not necessarily include cover against accidental breakage or damage.

    You can usually add accidental damage cover to a policy if it isn’t already included. This could be useful if you own expensive or fragile items like glassware.


    Tenant improvements cover

    If you have made any improvements to the property it would be worth looking to see if your insurance covers you for tenant improvements. In the event of a claim, the landlord’s insurers would only reinstate the building back to its original state, not including any improvements you’ve made to the building to make it work for you. This could therefore leave the improvements made uninsured and your investments in the property at risk.


    Why not take a look at Police Mutual Renters’ Insurance?


    We offer renters’ insurance for those that just need the reassurance of contents cover. Provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc, renters’ insurance is available to serving or retired Police Officers and Staff, Specials and their families.

    Why not talk to us today?

    Call us on 0151 242 7640 for more information.

    We’re open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.


    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS136QS.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    * Association of British Insurers (ABI)  – Cost of home contents insurance falls to a record low, yet one in four UK households are uninsured, news article February 2019.

    Joanne Palmer

  • How Police Mutual is supporting you during the coronavirus pandemic.

    How Police Mutual is supporting you during the coronavirus pandemic.

    This article was published on Sun 24 May 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    We are naturally doing everything we can to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues and, at the same time, focusing on maintaining the service we provide to you, our Members and customers. Read more information on how we will be supporting you directly.

    Guidance for the Police family

    As frontline officers and staff, you are playing a critical role in the response to this crisis, it is therefore even more important for you to say fit and well and to look after all areas of your health during this difficult time.

    For Police specific guidance, take a look at the links below:
    Oscar Kilo Coronavirus Hub

    Police Federation

    Guidance to First Responders

    Physical health

    Research shows that being sedentary is bad for your health, so ensure you keep active at home. Exercise helps both your physical and mental health, if you can go outside, go for a regular walk or do some online exercise classes.

    Think about what you’re eating and where possible eat a balanced diet. Whilst food supplies may be limited, think ahead and plan your meals.

    Limit your alcohol intake. In uncertain times like these it can be tempting to reach for a bottle to cope with the boredom and uncertainty but alcohol impacts your immunity and reduces your body’s ability to fight off disease.

    Mental health

    During this time, you may be bored, frustrated or lonely. You may also feel low, worried, anxious, or be concerned about your health or that of those close to you.

    Everyone reacts differently to events and changes in the way that we think, feel and behave vary between different people and over time. It’s important that you take care of your mind as well as your body.

    Tips to help if you’re worried about coronavirus:

    – Keep a routine
    – Maintain social contact by text, Skype or phone
    – Avoid family arguments
    – Plan ahead
    – Don’t watch too much news
    – Manage your fears

    Looking after your finances

    As the outbreak continues to take its toll on life and the economy you may be worrying about what the financial impact is for you or your family members.

    For tips on keeping your finances in check during this time, see our guide in the useful resources section.

    As always we’re here to help, visit policemutual.co.uk, call 01543 441 630

    Joanne Palmer

  • Dedicated FAO website now live

    Dedicated FAO website now live

    This article was published on Mon 11 May 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    As you know, on 30 April we announced one of the biggest decisions Police Mutual has ever made: our proposal to become part of Royal London.

    Our dedicated website for you, our FAOs, is now live and available by clicking here:
    https://faoinfo.co.uk

    It’s a ‘one-stop-shop,’ the site provides a range of information and materials about the proposed transfer – including the what; when; and why; and the importance of your role.

    The site also includes copies of the voting pack and other materials you have been sent. And, if you have a question which isn’t covered by our FAQs, you are encouraged to submit it via the site.

    You will also find details about a series of FAO webinars we are running in the next couple of weeks, the first being at 1pm on Thursday (14 May). Please visit the website to book yourself on to one of these important webinars.

    We want you to understand why we are recommending the proposal to become part of Royal London, and the reasons behind the proposal, as well as what it will mean for members.

    It’s why all of this is aimed at providing you with as full a picture as possible about the proposal. We want all of you to be able to make a fully informed decision when you cast your crucial vote on securing Police Mutual’s future.

    Joanne Palmer

    ,

  • Join the Nation in raising a glass on VE Day

    Join the Nation in raising a glass on VE Day

    This article was published on Thur 07 May 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    VE Day marks the day when fighting against Nazi Germany in Europe ceased and World War 2 came to an end – on 8th May 1945.

    Under normal circumstances, this would be a time when we would come together to reflect upon and celebrate the sacrifices made by so many people during the war. Not just the millions of soldiers, but the men and women who worked in the factories and mines, as well as Police Officers, nurses, and many more.

    This year is the 75th anniversary of VE Day and there were lots of special celebrations planned to take place. The government had moved the traditional May Bank Holiday so that it falls on Friday 8th May. Pubs were to be allowed to stay open later, and people across the country were encouraged to throw street parties. There was also going to be a flyover of Buckingham Palace by the Red Arrows.

    However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, plans for VE Day celebrations have been postponed until a later date.

    Instead, organisers are encouraging everyone to take part in The Nation’s Toast – raising a glass on Friday 8th May at 3pm and making the following toast: To those who gave so much, we thank you.

    We will certainly be taking part, paying tribute to the millions both home and abroad who gave so much to ensure the freedom we all enjoy today.

    Joanne Palmer

  • Proposal for Police Mutual to become part of Royal London

    Proposal for Police Mutual to become part of Royal London

    This article was published on Thu 30 Apr 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Police Mutual is proud of its long heritage serving the Police family and is ready to take the next vital step in its journey.

    That next step is a proposal that the Police Mutual group of companies become part of The Royal London Mutual Insurance Society Limited (Royal London).

    The proposal would mean the transfer of Police Mutual to Royal London, the UK’s largest mutual life insurance, pensions and investment company. Royal London is a strong mutual organisation that has committed to our goal of improving the financial wellbeing of the Police and Military families.

    We believe the proposal preserves what our members, colleagues and the Police service value most about Police Mutual.

    Benefits protected
    There will be no change to the terms of members’ existing products.

    Preserving our brand and our purpose
    The proposal will provide a sustainable future for Police Mutual, and preserve our brand and purpose, creating a new chapter in our long and evolving history.

    Better offerings
    The proposal would make us part of a larger, stronger business that has a broader business mix, and which offers a wider range of products. This partnering with the UK’s largest mutual insurer gives the opportunity to create better customer offerings and will allow improvements in service and propositions and wider support of the Police family.

    Why the proposal is good for the Police and members?
    It means a continuation of our work with the Police service and broader Policing organisations to improve the financial wellbeing of serving and retired Police Officers and Staff and their families.

    Next steps
    We will write to our members and customers with more information in mid-June, following a vote on the proposal by the Force Authorised Officers (FAOs).

    Joanne Palmer

  • Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    This article was published on Wed 08 Apr 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    ou have probably seen the new offers for discounted home and car insurance.

    This online discount is a limited offer – the Home Insurance discount runs until 23 April 2020 and the Car Insurance discount ends on 30 June 2020.

    You can take advantage of these offers PLUS your usual FAO/AO discount.

    To get both discounts you’ll need to follow these 3 simple steps;
    1. Get a Home and/or Car quote online at policemutual.co.uk
    2. Make a note of the quote reference(s)
    3. Email the quote reference(s) to info@pmas.co.uk stating you’re an FAO or AO

    One of our insurance experts will then ensure your FAO/AO discount is also applied. We’ll then contact you as soon as we can to confirm your fully discounted quote price.

    The online discount is applied to the basic premium when you buy a new car or home policy. The FAO/AO discount is then applied to the online discounted premium. The discounts are not available on optional extras and minimum premiums apply. The online offer only applies during the policy period and will not apply at renewal; the renewal price may be higher. The online discount will be automatically applied to your quote and will apply on all quotes taken before midnight on 30 June 2020 for car insurance and 23 April 2020 for home insurance, however can be withdrawn at any time.

    Please note your standard FAO/AO discounts of 20% off your Home Insurance and 10% off your Car Insurance will continue, on telephone quotes, after the online discounts have finished, if you remain in the role.

    Joanne Palmer

    , ,

  • Beginner’s guide to investing 2020

    Beginner’s guide to investing 2020

    This article was published on Monday 6 April 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Top tips for first-time investors.

    Whatever your savings goals may be, it’s important that your money works as hard as possible for you. If you are saving for the medium to long term, you might want to consider investing some of your money. You should invest in a way that’s right for you without taking unacceptable risks. See our guide below for some top tips for first-time investors:

    What are investments?
    There are many different types of investments available including stocks and shares and property and bonds. You invest money in these types of assets to get a profitable return, however by investing you can also incur losses. Contrary to common belief you do not have to have a large lump sum to start investing, some products offer a regular saving option allowing you to invest smaller amounts on a monthly basis.

    Why should I think about investing?
    We all have different savings goals and these can change depending on what life stage you are at. If you are saving for the longer term and don’t need access to your money, investing in stocks and shares or property and bonds could be an alternative to a cash savings account.

    When should I start investing?
    Nobody can predict the perfect time in the market for you to invest your money, however you should make sure that you have enough money which you can access easily to cover your everyday expenses and ensure you have an emergency fund that can easily be accessible before you consider investing. Before you invest make sure that you are happy that, in exchange for potentially better returns, you understand any associated risks.

    What about the risks?
    Whenever you invest money you will always be exposed to some element of risk. It’s very important to think about how much risk you feel comfortable with and that you can afford to take risks before making your investment. The more risk you take generally the bigger the potential return on your investment, this is because more risky investments are generally more volatile which means their value can rise and fall rapidly.

    Think about your personal circumstances
    It is important to understand your personal circumstances. If you lose money on your investment, consider how this would affect your standard of living. If a potential loss could affect your lifestyle you may want to think about a more cautious investment where exposure to losses can be managed more effectively.

    Do your homework
    When you find an investment product you may be interested in, make sure that you do your research. Check out independent financial websites and press for information. Ensure that you are happy with where and how your money will be invested and check the risk level of the investment to make sure you are comfortable with it. If you have any doubts consider contacting a qualified Financial Adviser.

    Police Mutual offer a range of savings and investments products. Whether you want to save regularly or invest a larger amount our products could help meet your needs. To find out more about our range click here or call the team on 01543 441 630

    Police Mutual Assurance Society Limited is an incorporated friendly society. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

    Joanne Palmer

  • 5 golden rules when choosing an investment

    5 golden rules when choosing an investment

    This article was published on Mon 06 Apr 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Are you looking to invest? Check out these important things to consider.

    If you have made the decision to start investing, it’s important that you take the time to do some research on the market and find the right product for you. Below are 5 golden rules to follow to help you through the process.

    1. Higher returns = higher risks
    If you don’t want to or can’t take any risks with your money then investing may not be the right option for you. The basic rule is that to improve your chances of better returns you will have to accept more risk, but with higher risk can lead to bigger losses. When you are selecting your investment product always consider the level of risk you are willing to take.

    2. Be diversified
    Putting all of your money in one type of investment can be risky. You can reduce this risk by choosing a product that spreads your money across a mix of investment types and sectors. This is called diversifying and works on the basis that when prices in one investment area may be falling they could be rising in another area. This can help to balance out the risk and return on your investment.

    3. Think long term
    If your money is invested for a longer period, the better chance it has to produce a potentially better return. There are of course no guarantees but keeping your investment for at least 5 years, or ideally 10 or more years, increases the potential for better returns. This is because there’s more time for your investment to recover from any short-term drops in value. If you think you may want access to your money in the short term you might want to consider a cash savings product instead.

    4. Let the expert’s help
    Investing does not need to be complex or time consuming. You can of course choose to manage your investments yourself but this does take time and takes a certain level of expertise. If you are new to investing why not consider looking for an investment product where the fund and your money is managed for you by experts. If you’re unsure about which type of investment is right for you, think about contacting a financial adviser for advice.

    5. Keep an eye on your investments
    You should take time to review your investments on an annual basis to make sure they are on track and that you are happy with your investment. This will allow you to monitor how they are performing over the years and to make any necessary changes to help you reach your savings goals. Remember the value of investments can vary all the time as the markets fall and rise, investing over the long term can help minimise the impact of this. If you are worried about how your investments are performing then it might be time to review your options and consider whether this level of risk is right for you.

    Police Mutual offer a range of savings and investments products. Whether you want to save regularly or invest a larger amount our products could help meet your needs. To find out more about our range click here or call the team on 01543 441 630.

    Police Mutual Assurance Society Limited is an incorporated friendly society. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

    Joanne Palmer

  • National Stress Awareness Month – April

    National Stress Awareness Month – April

    This article was published on Thu 26 Mar 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992.

    We all know what it’s like to feel stressed – being under pressure is a normal part of life. But becoming overwhelmed by stress can lead to mental health problems or make existing problems worse.

    Stress isn’t a mental health condition, but it can cause a mental health problem, like anxiety or depression or it can cause an existing one to get worse.

    Stress can also affect you physically, it can cause headaches, tiredness or stomach problems.

    National Stress Awareness month is a great opportunity to take a moment to think about your own wellbeing and find out more on how to manage stress.


    What you can do to help with stress

    There are various steps you can take to cope with being under pressure, remember, different things work for different people.

    • Identify your triggers and take control – working out what triggers your stress can help you anticipate when you may feel stressed and what you could do about it in advance.
    • Organise your time – making some adjustments to the way you organise your time can help you feel more in control and able to handle the pressure you are feeling.
    • Be active – exercise can help clear your head and then let you deal with your problems more calmly. Go outside to exercise, as fresh air and spending time in nature can really help.
    • Talk to other people – friends, family & colleagues can help support you through the stress you are feeling, you may even have a laugh and start to relax. You may also want to consider talking to a professional counsellor.
    • Do something you enjoy – spending time doing something you enjoy will take your mind off how you are feeling. Everyone needs to take time for themselves, it can be as simple as having a bath or reading a book.
    • Avoid unhealthy ways to cope – many people use alcohol, smoking, chocolate and gambling to try and relieve the stress they are feeling, none of these things will help in the long term, use healthy coping strategies like going for a run, listening to music or walking the dog.
    • Challenge yourself – learning new skills and setting yourself new goals will help build your confidence and make you feel good about yourself.
    • Help others – people who volunteer in the community or for a worthwhile cause tend to be more resilient.
    • Try to be positive – think of all the things you are grateful for, write down or say out loud 3 things that went well each day.
    • Address some of the causes – where possible improve some of the issues that are putting pressure on you.
    • Accept the things you can’t change – it’s not easy, but accepting that there are some things happening to you that you can’t do anything about will help you focus your time and energy elsewhere.

    Worrying about money can be extremely stressful and may lead to mental health conditions.

    Police Mutual are here to help. We want to break down the stigma surrounding debt and get people talking about money.


    Police Mutual Products & Services

    Police Mutual offer a range of wellbeing support services, for more details check out the For You pages on our website at www.policemutual.co.uk

    Our Care Line Service provided by Health Assured can offer advice and information at the end of a phone, helping with a range of concerns including emotional support. To talk to someone please call 0800 028 1708 or take a look at the e-portal –

    Health & Wellbeing e-portal

    https://healthassuredeap.co.uk

    Username: policemutual

    Password: careline

    We’ve teamed up with PayPlan, one of the UK’s leading free debt advice providers, who offer free and confidential advice to anyone in serious financial difficulties.

    They’re able to advise you on a range of debt solutions suited to your individual circumstances, helping to protect you and your family with a sustainable way to manage your debt.

    Get free and confidential help to combat your debt, call PayPlan on 0800 197 8433

    Police Mutual Assurance Society Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is an incorporated friendly society. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6QS. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

    Want to learn more? Access our wellbeing hub here.

    Joanne Palmer

  • Welcome to the Police Mutual app

    Welcome to the Police Mutual app

    This article was published on Thur 19 Mar 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Welcome to the Police Mutual App for Force Authorised Officers (FAO) and Authorised Officers (AO). Thank you for downloading it and we hope you find it full of useful information to help you in your role as a Police Mutual advocate. A summary of what you can see in this section of the app is detailed below.

    • Latest news to keep you fully updated on all Police Mutual news and specific news articles to assist you in your role
    • Advanced notice of our special offers, prize draws and our most current campaigns.
    • Details of how you can support Police Mutual and access materials to promote our campaigns to your colleagues and family
    • Details of all the events Police Mutual run throughout the year and how to promote them
    • Guidance for keeping your displays current
    • Contact details for members of the Police Mutual team who are here to support you in your valuable role as a Force Authorised Officer or Authorised Officer
    • Details of the Purpose, Role Profile and Best Practice Guidance
    • Sharing of best practice and to see what great work the FAO/AO community are doing

    And we’d love you to give us lots of feedback about what you are doing out there to support us, how you’d like us to support you and what’s going well or not so well. So we have a Community Update section where we can share ideas, successes and development opportunities.

    Joanne Palmer