Families are focusing on protection, even as they cut back on non-essentials, Aviva has found.

Half of insurers are now offering some form of HIV Life Assurance, up from 35% last year, according to medical financial advisers Unusual Risks.

A marked change in consumer awareness is causing consumers to take an "austere" self-assessment of protection needs, Swiss Re has said.

Westfield Health has reported sales growth of 29% increasing market share to 13.5%, in its annual results for 2010/11.

Choosing the right provider is key to advisers considering the business protection market Defaqto has said in a new guide to the sector.

Figures from the Government Statistical Service (GSS) have shown no increase in cancelled operations over this time last year.

Aviva and Legal & General are to provide life and general insurance products for Barclays Bank UK Retail customers.

Bright Grey has launched ‘Bright Touch', a free iPhone app that allows advisers to access product information.

Lifesearch is in final negotiations on a plan to offer clients general insurance products.

Friends Life has announced completion of the outsourcing on IT and Customer Service functions of its UK Heritage business.