Written off at 81 by insurer

The article illustrates how different aspects of ‘discrimination’ might affect employers. One aspect not covered appears to be ‘age’.

We all accept that there are certain statutory age limits – the obvious examples being the age at which you can purchase alcohol, cigarettes, or get married – but this week I have been subjected to discrimination simply because, to quote the company concerned, I have attained the age of 81 and they were no longer offering travel insurance to those who have attained this age.

I have been with this particular company for many years and have not to the best of my recollection (I am, after all, 81) ever made a claim.

There was no consideration of the current state of my health (pretty fit, I think) or of my claims record. Simply, ‘You are 81 or over, we no longer want your business’.

I have my house, contents and motor insurance with the same company. The annual premiums are/were around £1,000 per annum. I am now concerned that when my motor insurance comes up for renewal, the over-81 rule will be applied and I will have to find a new insurer and build up a record of no claim bonuses all over again.

I have instructed my broker to seek out other insurers now rather than wait until the last moment.

I hope the company concerned feels the financial consequences of applying this indiscriminate rule based purely on age.

A more reasonable approach might have been to ask, as does the driving licence department, for a medical report from my general practitioner.

Or, of course, the less subtle but equally effective way to make me look for another insurer off my own bat, apply a steep increase in the premium or the introduction of an excess charge on any claim.

I have not named the insurance company for fairly obvious reasons.

NAME AND ADDRESS WITHHELD.