What Is Children’s CIC?
When you take out a critical illness policy for yourself, most providers automatically include free critical illness cover for your children aged up to 18–23.
If a child is diagnosed with a covered condition, the policy pays a lump sum – typically between £20,000 and 50% of your main sum assured (capped around £25,000 at most providers).
Which Conditions Are Covered for Children?
Children’s CIC typically covers:
- Cancer (the most common children’s claim)
- Heart surgery
- Meningitis
- Brain conditions and tumours
- Bone marrow transplant
- Some policies include additional child-specific conditions (Kawasaki disease, Type 1 diabetes at Vitality)
Key benefit: A child’s CIC claim does not reduce the parent’s main sum assured at most providers. The children’s benefit is additional.
Financial Impact of a Child’s Illness
If your child is seriously ill, the financial impact includes:
- Reduced working hours (one or both parents)
- Travel to specialist hospitals
- Home adaptations
- Additional childcare for siblings
- Private treatment, specialist equipment
Does the Claim Affect Your Policy?
Usually not. Most providers pay children’s CIC as an additional benefit that does not reduce your own cover. Check this with your specific provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, usually free and automatic on most UK CIC policies.
Usually no – paid as additional benefit without reducing your own cover.