Latest news with #PaulPaddock
North Wales Live
2 days ago
- North Wales Live
The Adventure Gap: The Rise of the Boomerang Adventurer
The UK's over-50s are embracing adventure like never before, with new research revealing a quarter (25 per cent) consider themselves more adventurous in their 50s than they were in their 20s. The rise of golden years adventure has prompted new offerings within Post Office life insurance cover to ensure people have their future planned as well as their present. According to the new research from Post Office, 40 per cent regret not being more daring when they were younger. Now, they're making up for lost time. Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of over-50s describe themselves as risk-takers, with men being 10 per cent more likely than women to hold this view (29 per cent v 19 per cent). Bristol tops the list with the highest proportion of over-50s risk-takers (30 per cent), followed by Southampton (28 per cent) and London (27 per cent). The enthusiasm for new experiences is clear, one in five (17 per cent) of over 50s dream of travelling to North America, with Asia (14 per cent), Africa (9 per cent) and South America (9 per cent) next on the list. Seeing the Northern Lights (32 per cent) is first on the bucket list, followed by going on safari (16 per cent) and learning a new language (16 per cent). However, the spirit of adventure hasn't always been easy to prioritise. Over half (56 per cent) of those polled have felt unable to be adventurous at certain points in their lives. The most common barriers stopping over-50s from pursuing adventure earlier in life included becoming a parent (27 per cent), suffering a health concern (20 per cent), and buying a house (17 per cent). Women have been disproportionately affected, with almost a third (32 per cent) saying parenthood put adventure on hold, almost 10 per cent more than men (22 per cent). The caregiving burden was also heavier on women, with nearly one in five women (19 per cent) feeling that their adventure was delayed due to caring for a family member, compared to just over one in 10 men (11 per cent). 50 marks a major milestone when people reclaim adventure. More than one in five (21 per cent) felt turning 50 allowed them to prioritise adventure again if they felt unable to focus on this at a previous point in their life. However, while many focus on their immediate desires, like adventure, they often overlook the importance of long-term planning. Nearly eight in ten (79 per cent) have invested in home insurance, but fewer take steps to safeguard their future through life insurance, with just 39 per cent having life insurance in place. This lack of preparation may be linked to the tendency of many over-50s to avoid thinking about negative events in the future. Under half (49 percent) admit to steering clear of such thoughts, with a quarter of them (26 percent) taking it so far as to avoid the topic altogether with no financial plan in place for the future. Post Office's Paul Paddock said: 'It's fantastic to see the over-50s embracing new experiences and re-seeking adventure. As with any new chapter preparation is key, and we urge everyone to research the different types of life insurance products that are available to them to ensure you have the right life and critical illness cover for you. Having the right life insurance in place means you can enjoy adventurous experiences, without unnecessary worry.'
North Wales Live
28-05-2025
- North Wales Live
France tops list of destinations Brits travel to without travel insurance
France tops the list of countries holidaymakers surveyed have visited without travel insurance (20 percent), followed by Germany (12 percent), Spain (11 percent) and Italy (10 percent) – according to a new report. It comes as only half of the nation (51 percent) say they would always buy travel insurance before going abroad – despite 70 percent of Brits saying they consider having no travel insurance for their holiday to be risky. The new Post Office travel study revealed the top reason for risking travel without insurance is feeling that the destination was safe (25 percent). This attitude is particularly prevalent amongst young UK adults – with over half (52 percent) of under 35-year-olds believing Europe is safe enough to visit without travel insurance. This is despite over a third (35 percent) of holidaymakers experiencing a travel related issue that travel insurance could have covered. Medical emergencies are the main reasons for travel insurance claims (27 percent), followed by travel delays/cancellations (23 percent), lost or damaged luggage (23 percent) and theft or loss of belongings (16 percent). But it's not just feeling safe that is causing holidaymakers to cut corners on travel insurance. Almost one in four (24 percent) say they've skipped travel insurance because they were only going on a short trip. In fact, among those who base their decision on trip length, travel insurance typically isn't considered until the trip lasts at least five days on average. Among these misconceptions is the belief that travel insurance isn't necessary (24 percent). Meanwhile, 53 percent say that the price of travel insurance is a factor in deciding not to purchase it – with this percentage rising to 70 percent amongst 25–34-year-olds. Some holidaymakers simply forgot to purchase it (16 percent). The report found that as many as one in seven (14 percent) of those who have an incident without insurance had to fork out £500 or more – although the price tag could run into the thousands, especially in the case of repatriation or medical assistance abroad. Seventy-six percent of holidaymakers say they would be more likely to buy travel insurance if they knew medical treatment abroad could cost £500 for a minor incident. Paul Paddock, Protection Director at the Post Office, said: 'The question I'm always asked is 'do I have to have travel insurance?' And my answer is yes, if you want to avoid putting you and your family at risk in the unfortunate event that something goes wrong. 'It is staggering how much money is paid out by travellers for unexpected incidents due to travelling without cover. It only takes a few minutes to get a travel insurance quote and it can protect you against medical emergencies, cancelled flights, lost luggage, repatriation and more. 'But don't instantly select the lowest price, cheap travel insurance may not always cover everything you need– read the policy carefully as it is better to spend a bit more to get cover which is right for you, otherwise you could still be left footing a large bill.' Destinations UK holidaymakers have visited without insurance: France – 20 percent Germany – 12 percent Spain (including the Balearic/Canary Islands) – 11 percent Italy – 10 percent USA – 9 percent Ireland – 9 percent Canada – 8 percent Greece – 8 percent Denmark – 7 percent Portugal – 6 percent Some of the most googled questions reveal the nation's confusion around travel insurance – with questions ranging from 'is travel insurance compulsory?' and 'can you get travel insurance for cancelled flights?' to, 'is there holiday insurance with repatriation?' and even 'what happens if you die abroad without insurance?' Paddock continued: 'There is clearly confusion around what travel insurance covers and what it can't – we can help people to choose the right cover for their trip if they're asking themselves 'do I need travel insurance?'. It's not worth the risk going without it'."
Wales Online
28-05-2025
- Wales Online
France tops list of destinations Brits travel to without travel insurance - as only half say they 'always' buy it
France tops list of destinations Brits travel to without travel insurance - as only half say they 'always' buy it The new Post Office travel study revealed the top reason for risking travel without insurance is feeling that the destination was safe (25 percent). 70 percent of Brits saying they consider having no travel insurance for their holiday to be risky. (Image: Getty ) France tops the list of countries holidaymakers surveyed have visited without travel insurance (20 percent), followed by Germany (12 percent), Spain (11 percent) and Italy (10 percent) – according to a new report. It comes as only half of the nation (51 percent) say they would always buy travel insurance before going abroad – despite 70 percent of Brits saying they consider having no travel insurance for their holiday to be risky. The new Post Office travel study revealed the top reason for risking travel without insurance is feeling that the destination was safe (25 percent). This attitude is particularly prevalent amongst young UK adults – with over half (52 percent) of under 35-year-olds believing Europe is safe enough to visit without travel insurance. This is despite over a third (35 percent) of holidaymakers experiencing a travel related issue that travel insurance could have covered. Medical emergencies are the main reasons for travel insurance claims (27 percent), followed by travel delays/cancellations (23 percent), lost or damaged luggage (23 percent) and theft or loss of belongings (16 percent). But it's not just feeling safe that is causing holidaymakers to cut corners on travel insurance. Almost one in four (24 percent) say they've skipped travel insurance because they were only going on a short trip. In fact, among those who base their decision on trip length, travel insurance typically isn't considered until the trip lasts at least five days on average. Among these misconceptions is the belief that travel insurance isn't necessary (24 percent). Meanwhile, 53 percent say that the price of travel insurance is a factor in deciding not to purchase it – with this percentage rising to 70 percent amongst 25–34-year-olds. Some holidaymakers simply forgot to purchase it (16 percent). The report found that as many as one in seven (14 percent) of those who have an incident without insurance had to fork out £500 or more – although the price tag could run into the thousands, especially in the case of repatriation or medical assistance abroad. Seventy-six percent of holidaymakers say they would be more likely to buy travel insurance if they knew medical treatment abroad could cost £500 for a minor incident. Paul Paddock, Protection Director at the Post Office, said: 'The question I'm always asked is 'do I have to have travel insurance?' And my answer is yes, if you want to avoid putting you and your family at risk in the unfortunate event that something goes wrong. 'It is staggering how much money is paid out by travellers for unexpected incidents due to travelling without cover. It only takes a few minutes to get a travel insurance quote and it can protect you against medical emergencies, cancelled flights, lost luggage, repatriation and more. 'But don't instantly select the lowest price, cheap travel insurance may not always cover everything you need– read the policy carefully as it is better to spend a bit more to get cover which is right for you, otherwise you could still be left footing a large bill.' Destinations UK holidaymakers have visited without insurance: France – 20 percent Germany – 12 percent Spain (including the Balearic/Canary Islands) – 11 percent Italy – 10 percent USA – 9 percent Ireland – 9 percent Canada – 8 percent Greece – 8 percent Denmark – 7 percent Portugal – 6 percent Article continues below Some of the most googled questions reveal the nation's confusion around travel insurance – with questions ranging from 'is travel insurance compulsory?' and 'can you get travel insurance for cancelled flights?' to, 'is there holiday insurance with repatriation?' and even 'what happens if you die abroad without insurance?' Paddock continued: 'There is clearly confusion around what travel insurance covers and what it can't – we can help people to choose the right cover for their trip if they're asking themselves 'do I need travel insurance?'. It's not worth the risk going without it'."
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Scotsman
21-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Pet owners turn to Google to diagnose pet health
Canva/Getty Images A new report reveals UK pet owners are increasingly anxious about their pet's health, with over one in five (21 percent) experiencing daily worries Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Research found a reliance on Google for panicking pet owners, with many turning to the internet to diagnose their pets' health concerns and to seek online pet advice (88 percent). The survey conducted by Post Office highlights the growing concerns of UK pet owners regarding their pets' health and the rising costs of pet care. The data sheds light on the emotional and financial stress experienced by pet owners across the country. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 21 percent of pet owners admit to worrying about their pet's health and wellbeing every day. This concern is particularly pronounced among younger pet owners aged 18-34 (23 percent). The majority (71 percent) of respondents reported feeling stressed about the costs associated with pet care, including vet visits, treatments, and check-ups - despite this, over 40 percent (41 percent) do not have pet insurance in place. When it comes to the top causes of panic, pet owners cite animals eating something they shouldn't (35 percent), health issues (32 percent) and changes in behaviour (31 percent) as the most common concerns. Pet panics are leading many to turn to Google to diagnose their worries. Google searches for dogs eating chocolate increased by 143% over the Easter period (20th-26th April 2025) compared to the yearly average1. However, over a third (33 per cent) admit this leads to increased anxiety rather than reassurance. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With daily worries about pets' wellbeing and the financial strain as a major stressor, there is a growing demand for affordable and accessible solutions such as comprehensive pet insurance plans and a 24/7 vet advice line. 80 percent said they would feel more at ease with access to an 24/7 online vet in pet emergencies. Paul Paddock, Product and Pricing Director at Post Office commented: "The data highlights the understandable panics many pet owners face when looking after their furry friends, from eating something they shouldn't, changes in their behaviour, to leaving them home alone. "We know that ensuring our pets are healthy and happy can come with emotional and financial stresses. The internet can be a great source of information for concerned owners, however with so much misinformation online, it's easy to incorrectly diagnose your pet and worry. Whilst it can be a useful resource, the internet should never replace professional advice. "We are committed to supporting pet owners with accessible services, which is why all our plans from dog insurance, cat insurance, to rabbit insurance give you access to 24/7 support with our PetCall advice line. Pets are family, and we aim to provide peace of mind for owners."
North Wales Live
20-05-2025
- Health
- North Wales Live
Vet vs Google: Pet owners turning to Google to diagnose pet health
A new report reveals UK pet owners are increasingly anxious about their pet's health, with more than one in five (21 per cent) experiencing daily worries. Research found a reliance on Google for panicking pet owners, with many turning to the internet to diagnose their pets' health concerns and to seek online pet advice (88 per cent). The survey conducted by Post Office highlights the growing concerns of UK pet owners regarding their pets' health and the rising costs of pet care. The data sheds light on the emotional and financial stress experienced by pet owners across the country. 21 per cent of pet owners admit to worrying about their pet's health and wellbeing every day. This concern is particularly pronounced among younger pet owners aged 18-34 (23 per cent). The majority (71 per cent) of respondents reported feeling stressed about the costs associated with pet care, including vet visits, treatments, and check-ups - despite this, over 40 percent (41 per cent) do not have pet insurance in place. When it comes to the top causes of panic, pet owners cite animals eating something they shouldn't (35 per cent), health issues (32 per cent) and changes in behaviour (31 per cent) as the most common concerns. Pet panics are leading many to turn to Google to diagnose their worries. Google searches for dogs eating chocolate increased by 143 per cent over the Easter period (20th-26th April 2025) compared to the yearly average 1. However, over a third (33 per cent) admit this leads to increased anxiety rather than reassurance. With daily worries about pets' wellbeing and the financial strain as a major stressor, there is a growing demand for affordable and accessible solutions such as comprehensive pet insurance plans and a 24/7 vet advice line. 80 per cent said they would feel more at ease with access to an 24/7 online vet in pet emergencies. Paul Paddock, product and pricing director at Post Office, said: 'The data highlights the understandable panics many pet owners face when looking after their furry friends, from eating something they shouldn't, changes in their behavior, to leaving them home alone. "We know that ensuring our pets are healthy and happy can come with emotional and financial stresses. The internet can be a great source of information for concerned owners, however with so much misinformation online, it's easy to incorrectly diagnose your pet and worry. Whilst it can be a useful resource, the internet should never replace professional advice. 'We are committed to supporting pet owners with accessible services, which is why all our plans from dog insurance, cat insurance, to rabbit insurance give you access to 24/7 support with our PetCall advice line. Pets are family, and we aim to provide peace of mind for owners.'
