It was today announced that Jackson Lee Underwriting has taken on the BIBA-endorsed Holiday Travel Plus and Sports Travel Scheme.
The travel scheme, which is one of the longest-running approved BIBA schemes, has been endorsed by the association for two decades now and the policies are underwritten by AA rated capacity from Ergo Travel Insurance Services Limited on behalf of Great Lakes Insurance SE (part of Munich Re). Holiday Travel Plus from Jackson Lee Underwriting covers holidays in the UK and abroad.
The offering contains one of the broadest travel wordings available on the market for COVID-related risks, including cancellation cover as standard now on all policies, medical expenses, repatriation and associated accommodation costs. Insureds can choose an annual multi-trip option (available to those up to 75 years old) or a single-trip policy option (available to those up to 85 years old).
In a Press release on the subject, it was noted that brokers can also speak directly to underwriters should further flexibility be required.
As part of the agreement, Jackson Lee Underwriting also announced the appointment of Dipesh Patel (pictured) as senior underwriter and noted that Patel has worked with the BIBA approved travel scheme for several years, previously at DTW1991, as deputy class underwriter for accident and health.
Patel’s recognition across industry and government for the successful and innovative development of the travel scheme is reflected in the regular advice he lends external committees on travel insurance matters, including the impact of COVID-19.
Commenting on his appointment, Patel highlighted that it is more important now than ever before that clients get “broad and appropriate” cover, and are able to respond to the unique risks of the COVID crisis. The government’s recently announced traffic light system means brokers can also now expect to be increasingly busy with international travel quotations, he said, and while many insurance policies will now have elements of cover relating to COVID, there remains a significant difference between currently available wordings.
“My strong advice would be to only offer travel cover with the most comprehensive wordings,” he said. “Clearly the pandemic has been a worrying and challenging time for many, but as we begin to look to the future and open our borders again, we’re in an excellent position to make sure we equip brokers with first-class coverage, to give their clients the added reassurance and protection they need to get moving again.”
It was emphasised that BIBA members will benefit from the continuation of the direct relationship with Jackson Lee’s underwriting team for referrals, advice, marketing support and either onsite or webinar-based training.
Nick Mohan, joint MD at Jackson Lee, said: “We’re proud and delighted to be leading the BIBA Travel Scheme. BIBA’s continued support of our specialist schemes is recognition of our commitment to the quality of our products and services and our long heritage and expertise in developing niche insurance.
“We’re delighted to welcome Dipesh Patel to the Jackson Lee family. We’re excited to have his expertise on board and look forward to launching further innovative new travel policies over the coming months under his expert guidance.”
