FREE expert help & advice 0800 083 2829

Contact our specialist team for FREE expert help & advice 0800 083 2829

Privacy Notice

At The Insurance Surgery, we take your privacy seriously. This notice explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you use our services. We are committed to handling your data responsibly and transparently, in line with data protection laws.

What Is Privacy Notice?

We take your privacy very seriously and we ask that you read this privacy notice carefully as it contains important information on who we are, how and why we collect, store, use and share personal data, your rights in relation to your personal data and on how to contact us and supervisory authorities in the event you have a complaint.

Italicised words in this privacy notice have the meaning set out in the Glossary of Terms at the end of this document.

Who we are

The Insurance Surgery Ltd collects, uses and is responsible for certain personal data about you. When we do so we are required to comply with data protection regulation, and we are responsible as a data controller of that personal data for the purposes of those laws.

When we mention “The Insurance Surgery”, “we”, “us” or “our” we are referring to The Insurance Surgery Ltd.

We are a company registered in England and Wales under company number 5137288. Our registered office is at 2nd Floor, Pickford Street Mill, Pickford Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6JD.  The Insurance Surgery Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our Financial Services Register number is 401425. We are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) under registration number Z8689672.

We offer products based on a fair and personal analysis for all types of non-investment insurance contracts.

The personal data we collect and use

STEP 1
Complete form
STEP 2
Speak to us about your needs
STEP 3
We’ll search the market
STEP 4
We recommend the best product to suit your needs
STEP 5
Tell us when you want it to start!

In the course of providing our service to you we may collect the following personal data when you provide it to us:

Name

Address

Email

Telephone No

Date of Birth

Financial information

Employment status

Lifestyle information

Health information

Details of any vulnerability

Details of your dependents and/or beneficiaries under a policy If you are providing information about another person, we expect you to ensure that they know you are doing so and are content with their information being provided to us. You might find it helpful to show them this privacy notice and if they have any concerns, please contact us in one of the ways described below.

Information collected from other sources

We also obtain personal data from other sources in the course of providing our intermediary services. Where we obtain this information from another party it is their responsibility to make sure they explain that they will be sharing personal data with us and, where necessary, ask permission before sharing information with us.

The personal data we obtain from other sources may include the following:

From product providers: product details

From identification and verification checking agencies: identity information & sanction check information

How we use your personal data

The below table sets out:

how we use your personal data

the lawful bases upon which we collect and use your personal data

who we routinely share your personal data with

Rationale/Reason for Processing

Lawful Basis for Processing
Third party recipients linked to that activity

·     To process insurance quotes, policies, and related services

Performance of a contract, Legitimate Interest, Compliance with a legal obligation, Consent etc.

· Insurers.

· Identification and verification checking agencies.

· Insurance quotation suppliers.

Special category data

Certain types of personal data are considered more sensitive and so are subject to additional levels of protection under data protection legislation. These are known as ‘special categories of data’ and include data concerning your health, racial or ethnic origin, genetic data and sexual orientation. Data relating to criminal convictions or offences is also subject to additional levels of protection.

We may process:

Health information and lifestyle information when providing intermediary services in relation to a protection insurance product.

In addition to the lawful basis for processing this information set out in the above table, we will be processing it either (i) for the purpose of advising on, arranging, or administering an insurance contract or (ii) for the establishment, exercise, or defence of legal claims.

In the course of our activities relating to the prevention, detection and investigation of financial crime, we may process criminal conviction or offence information. Where we do so, in addition to the lawful basis for processing this information set out in the above table, we will be processing it for the purpose of compliance with regulatory requirements relating to unlawful acts and dishonesty.

Marketing

We may use personal data we hold about you to help us identify, tailor, and provide you with details of products and services from usthat may be of interest to you. We will only do so where we have obtained your consent and then have a legitimate business reason to do this and will do so in accordance with any marketing preferences you have provided to us.

In addition, where you provided your consent, we may provide you with details of products and services of third parties where they may be of interest to you.

You can opt out of receiving marketing at any time. If you wish to amend your marketing preferences, please contact us:

By email: [email protected]

By Post: 2nd floor, Pickford Street Mill, Pickford Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6JD

In addition, you can opt out of receiving marketing at any time by clicking the ‘unsubscribe’ link at the bottom of every email.

Whether information has to be provided by you, and if so why

We will tell you if providing some personal data is optional, including if we ask for your consent to process it. In all other cases you must provide your personal data in order for us to provide you with intermediary services.

How long your personal data will be kept

We will hold your personal data for differing periods of time depending upon the reason we have for processing it. These retention periods are set out below.

Type of Record

Retention Period

If you have received advice or quotes from us but do not proceed with the policy.

Your data will be stored for up to 1 year following the provision of the advice or quotation

If you have instructed us to arrange cover and set up the policy

Policy duration plus up to 6 years thereafter

Transfer of your information out of the EEA

We will not transfer your personal data outside of the European Economic Area or to any organisation (or subordinate bodies) governed by public international law or which is set up under any agreement between two or more countries.

Your rights

You have legal rights under data protection regulation in relation to your personal data. These are set out under the below headings:

To access personal data

To correct / erase personal data

To restrict how we use personal data

To object to how we use personal data

To ask us to transfer personal data to another organisation

To object to automated decisions

To find out more about how we use personal data

We may ask you for proof of identity when making a request to exercise any of these rights. We do this to ensure we only disclose information or change your details where we know we are dealing with the right individual.

We will not ask for a fee, unless we think your request is unfounded, repetitive, or excessive.  Where a fee is necessary, we will inform you before proceeding with your request.

We aim to respond to all valid requests within one month. It may however take us longer if the request is particularly complicated or you have made several requests.  We will always let you know if we think a response will take longer than one month. To speed up our response, we may ask you to provide more detail about what you want to receive or are concerned about.

We may not always be able to fully address your request, for example if it would impact the duty of confidentiality we owe to others, or if we are otherwise legally entitled to deal with the request in a different way.

To access personal data

You can ask us to confirm whether or not we have and are using your personal data. You can also ask to get a copy of your personal data from us and for information on how we process it.

To rectify / erase personal data

You can ask that we rectify any information about you which is incorrect. We will be happy to rectify such information but would need to verify the accuracy of the information first.

You can ask that we erase your personal data if you think we no longer need to use it for the purpose we collected it from you.

You can also ask that we erase your personal data if you have either withdrawn your consent to us using your information (if weoriginally asked for your consent to use your information), or exercised your right to object to further legitimate use of your information, or where we have used it unlawfully or where we are subject to a legal obligation to erase your personal data.

We may not always be able to comply with your request, for example where we need to keep using your personal data in order to comply with our legal obligation or where we need to use your personal data to establish, exercise or defend legal claims.

To restrict our use of personal data

You can ask that we restrict our use of your personal data in certain circumstances, for example:

where you think the information is inaccurate and we need to verify it;

where our use of your personal data is not lawful, but you do not want us to erase it;

where the information is no longer required for the purposes for which it was collected but we need it to establish, exercise or defend legal claims; or

where you have objected to our use of your personal data, but we still need to verify if we have overriding grounds to use it.

We can continue to use your personal data following a request for restriction where we have your consent to use it; or we need to use it to establish, exercise or defend legal claims, or we need to use it to protect the rights of another individual or a company.

To object to use of personal data

You can object to any use of your personal data which we have justified on the basis of our legitimate interest, if you believe your fundamental rights and freedoms to data protection outweigh our legitimate interest in using the information. If you raise an objection, we may continue to use the personal data if we can demonstrate that we have compelling legitimate interests to use the information.

To request a transfer of personal data

You can ask us to provide your personal data to you in a structured, commonly used, machine-readable format, or you can ask to have it transferred directly to another data controller (e.g. another company).

You may only exercise this right where we use your personal data in order to perform a contract with you, or where we asked for your consent to use your personal data. This right does not apply to any personal data which we hold or process outside automated means.

To contest decisions based on automatic decision making

If we made a decision about you based solely by automated means (i.e. with no human intervention), and the decision made by usproduces a legal effect concerning you, or significantly affects you, you may have the right to contest that decision, express your point of view and ask for a human review. These rights do not apply where we are authorised by law to make such decisions and have adopted suitable safeguards in our decision-making processes to protect your rights and freedoms.

You can contact us for more information

If you are not satisfied with the level of information provided in this privacy notice, you can ask us about what personal data we have about you, what we use your information for, who we disclose your information to, whether we transfer it abroad, how we protect it, how long we keep it for, what rights you have, how you can make a complaint, where we got your data from and whether we have carried out any automated decision making using your personal data.

If you would like to exercise any of the above rights, please:

email Matthew Vickers at [email protected] or write to us at The Insurance Surgery, 2nd floor, Pickford Street Mill, Pickford Street, Macclesfield. SK11 6JD;

let us have enough information to identify you, e.g. name, address, date of birth;

let us have proof of your identity and address (a copy of your driving licence or passport and a recent utility or credit card bill); and

let us know the information to which your request relates.

Keeping your personal data secure

We have appropriate security measures in place to prevent personal data from being accidentally lost or used or accessed in an unauthorised way. We limit access to your personal data to those who have a genuine business need to know it. Those processing your information will do so only in an authorised manner and are subject to a duty of confidentiality.

We also have procedures in place to deal with any suspected data security breach. We will notify you and any applicable regulator of a suspected data security breach where we are legally required to do so.

Our supervisory authority

If you are not happy with the way we are handling your information, you have a right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioners Office. It has enforcement powers and can investigate compliance with data protection regulation (www.ico.org.uk).

We ask that you please attempt to resolve any issues with us before the ICO.

How to contact us

Please contact Matthew Vickers if you have any questions about this privacy notice or the information, we hold about you.

If you wish to contact Matthew Vickers, please either email [email protected] or write to us at The Insurance Surgery, 2nd floor, Pickford Street Mill, Pickford Street, Macclesfield. SK11 6JD.

Glossary of Terms

weus or our
The Insurance Surgery Ltd.

contact information

these are details that can be used to contact a person, including title, first name, surname, personal telephone number, fax, email address, home address, country, postcode, or city of residence. This may also include work contact information such as work telephone number, fax, work email and work address

data controller

means a natural or legal person (such as a company) which determines the means and purposes of processing of personal data. For example, we are your data controller as we determine how we will collect personal data from you, the scope of data which will be collected, and the purposes for which it will be used in the course of us providing you with intermediary services

data protection regulation

applicable data privacy and protection laws

employment status

this is information about your work, if you are employed, self-employed, unemployed, a student or on job seeker allowance

FCA

the Financial Conduct Authority, being the independent watchdog that regulates financial services

financial information

this is information relating to your financial status, including salary/income, outgoings/expenditure, tax rate and P60

health information

this is information relating to your medical history, including symptoms, diagnoses, procedures, and outcomes, as well as information about your height and weight. This could include previous and current or persistent medical conditions and family medical history

identity information

this is any information that can be used to distinguish a person or verify their identity, such as name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, marital status, national identity card/number, passport, drivers’ licence and national insurance number

intermediary services

these are the services we provide to you in relation to the pure products, which may include life insurance, critical illness, income protection and accident protection.

lifestyle information

this includes both work and leisure behaviour patterns. Most relevant to your products may be your smoker status, alcohol consumption, health, retirement age and exercise habits

product

this is a protection product in respect of which we provide intermediary services to you

product provider

a company which provides protection products (for a list of product providers which we work with, please contact us – see How to contact us above)

sanction check information

this is information relating to your politically exposed persons (PEPs) status and Her Majesty’s Treasury financial sanctions status, which is recorded to prevent fraud and money laundering

vulnerability

a vulnerable consumer is someone who, due to their personal circumstances, is especially susceptible to detriment, particularly when an advisory firm is not acting with appropriate levels of care. These customers are more likely to suffer severe detriment if something goes wrong. Details of vulnerability fall into the following categories: health; resilience (financial); life events; and capability (financial knowledge/ confidence)

If you’re the primary breadwinner or share financial responsibilities, a life insurance policy can help your family maintain their standard of living in the unfortunate event that you’re no longer around to support them.

Life Cover Terminology

Understanding life insurance terminology is essential for policyholders to make informed decisions about their cover, we have broken down the meaning for some of the most used terms.

Useful Links​

At The Insurance Surgery, we are specialist life insurance providers for those who have congenital heart defects like coarctation of the aorta. We can help compare the market to find you the right insurance providers that can meet your needs while understanding the nature of your condition.

Why Choose The Insurance Surgery?

Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot.

We take pride in the experience that we offer, guaranteeing excellent service at all times.

25 years Experience.

With 25 years of specialist life and protection experience, we can find the perfect policy for you.

Access to a range of insurers.

With a broad selection of partners, we are well-equipped to find the best insurance deals for you.

Award-winning broker.

Known for making insurance simple, The Insurance Surgery is a trusted, award-winning broker.

Benefit from Our Life Insurance Policies Today.

Relax, knowing that your family can receive the financial support that they need after you pass, and trust The Insurance Surgery to guide you through the life insurance process. With 25 years behind us, we are a trusted broker known for our expertise, prioritising transparency, and providing excellent customer service. So, rely on us to ensure you receive the cover you need at a fair and affordable price.

For a life insurance quote, contact us today on 0800 083 2829 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards protecting yourself and your loved ones financially.

Understanding how IHT works and the ways to mitigate its impact can help you plan and ensure that your loved ones don’t face unexpected tax bills.  

How Much Does Life Insurance for HIV Cost?

Since the introduction of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART), premiums for those living with HIV have significantly reduced over the last 15 years. The amount you pay each month in policy premiums depends on your specific circumstances. When assessing your application, insurers will take into account factors such as your CD4 count and viral load.

Our experts will help you find the best deal to suit your needs and budget, taking the time to go through the different policies and discuss any concerns you may have.

Life Insurance with HIV Case Study 1

James is 31 years old and was diagnosed with HIV in 2017. He wanted to obtain both life insurance and critical illness cover to support his wife and child should anything happen.

We found James Life Insurance & Critical Illness Cover below:

Total Cover
Amount:

£40,000

Monthly Premium
Cost:

£22.41

Duration of
Policy:

30 years

Life Insurance with HIV Case Study 2

Jean is aged 45 and was diagnosed with HIV in 2011. She is keen to secure level life insurance for her and her partner.

We found Jean the Level Life Insurance below:

Total Cover
Amount:

£160,000

Monthly Premium
Cost:

£15.23

Duration of
Policy:

20 years

How much cover do you need?

You can use our Cover Calculator below to determine how much cover you need. Additionally, you will need to take into consideration the following:

Any outstanding debts

Mortgage/rent

Number of dependants

Take-home pay or income from other sources

Speak to our team of experts for FREE
specialist advice today.

Monday to Thursday:

9:00am – 8:00pm

Friday:

9:00am – 3:00pm

Facts About Life Insurance.

Life insurance can serve multiple purposes, including income replacement, wealth transfer, estate planning, and business succession. But how does life insurance shape up with the UK population?

7.5 million families

in the UK have no life insurance or critical illness cover.

£40,000

The average life insurance policy in the UK covers only about £40,000.

28%

of UK adults believe life insurance is too expensive.

96.9%

of all protection case claims were paid in 2024

Life insurance is unique – just like you.

Life Insurance for Parents

Life Insurance for Dads

Life Insurance for Sports & Hobbies​

Life Insurance for Self-Employed

Income Protection

Life Insurance for Smokers

Price Promise.

Obtain a cheaper quote elsewhere, we’ll beat
the price and also give you a £50 gift card!*

We are committed to offering unbeatable prices. Our
Price Promise ensures that we will find you the right
cover for your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a person with HIV get life insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Due to the recent changes in life insurance underwriting for HIV, we have seen a number of previous restrictions lifted. We now have access to standard rates and ‘whole of life‘ cover with no term restrictions if you are living with HIV, your viral load is undetectable, and your CD4 count is high.

Similar to other pre-existing medical conditions, if you are HIV positive, you will likely pay higher premiums than someone who isn’t. The exact amount depends on your personal circumstances, which will be assessed when you put forward your application.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with HIV but already have life insurance, it is well worth reviewing your existing cover, especially if it was obtained several years ago, as it is very likely that some changes could benefit you. 

The Insurance Surgery also offers a free Annual Review service to all our existing / new clients. This means that we constantly make sure that you have the right cover for your ever-changing life and check for any changes in underwriting.

Yes, we do! Use our partner’s Travel Insurance comparison tool to compare over 20 travel insurance quotes, all with your HIV covered, within just a few minutes and only having to input your information once.

Offering free advice, our experts are ready and waiting to offer protection advice on HIV life insurance policies that would best benefit your circumstances. With 25 years of experience, we’re a trusted broker and pride ourselves on making insurance simple.

We understand that finding life insurance can be tricky, especially when you have a pre-existing condition, so why not leave it to us? Give us a call today, and we’ll help you find the ideal policy that suits your needs and matches your budget.

For More Information, Check Out Our Latest Blogs

Stay informed with the latest updates in the insurance industry for 2025 here.

We aim to provide clear advice, breaking down the jargon, so you understand the importance of protection insurance.

When it comes to financial security, few things are more important than knowing how you’ll cope if

Why the November Budget Matters for Your Wallet The Autumn Budget 2025, scheduled for Wednesday, 26 November,

A cancer diagnosis brings many challenges, including concerns about financial security for your family. Many people assume

Becoming a parent changes everything. Suddenly, every decision you make isn’t just about you; it’s about the