Income Protection
Expert psychiatric evaluation of Income Protection claims, assessing the impact of mental health disorders on vocational capacity and occupational impairment. We provide reports prepared in accordance with Civil Procedure Rules Part 35 where required with urgent turnaround options for insurers and legal teams.
Expert Type
- Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist
- Consultant Psychiatrist
- Consultant Clinical Psychologist
- Neuropsychologist
Applicable Law
- Equality Act 2010
- Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) Guidelines
- Association of British Insurers (ABI) Codes
- Insurance Act 2015
- Consumer Insurance (Disclosure and Representations) Act 2012
When Needed
Independent evaluations are required when an insured individual claims a total or partial inability to work due to psychiatric illness, requiring verification of contractual disability.
What Is an Income Protection Assessment?
An Income Protection assessment is a specialised psychiatric evaluation used to determine if a claimant meets the definition of disability within their insurance policy. These assessments involve a forensic review of the individual’s clinical history and current mental state to establish how a diagnosed condition limits their professional capabilities.
The assessment focuses on the specific legal test of incapacity, such as “Own Occupation” or “Suited Occupation” criteria. Our experts provide an objective opinion on functional limitations and the likely duration of incapacity to assist in claim resolution or litigation.
- Clinical diagnosis — identifying ICD-11 or DSM-5 psychiatric disorders
- Occupational impact — evaluating how symptoms prevent the performance of material work duties
- Treatment history — reviewing the adequacy and efficacy of past and current clinical interventions
- Prognosis — estimating the timeline for potential recovery or a sustained return to work
- Symptom validity assessment — use of psychometric testing to evaluate the consistency and reliability of reported symptoms
- Contractual alignment — mapping clinical findings to specific insurance policy disability definitions
Our forensic experts operate within the strict requirements of civil litigation, ensuring that every report is robust enough to withstand scrutiny by insurers and legal counsel. The evaluation provides a clear evidence base for the Financial Ombudsman Service or court proceedings, offering an impartial view of the claimant’s mental health.
We consider the interplay between mental health and physical symptoms, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the claimant’s global functioning. This expert evidence is vital for resolving complex disputes regarding deferred periods and ongoing benefit eligibility.
Key Assessment Components
Our assessment evaluates the following areas:
Clinical Interview
A detailed examination of psychiatric history and current symptoms to establish a formal diagnosis and baseline of functioning.
Documentary Review
Thorough analysis of GP records, specialist reports, and employment history to verify the timeline and severity of the claimant’s incapacity.
Functional Assessment
Objective evaluation of cognitive abilities and daily activities required for the claimant’s specific professional or vocational role.
Treatment Review
Assessing whether the claimant has sought and complied with evidence-based treatment for their specific psychiatric condition.
Validity Testing
Utilisation of psychometric tools to assess the consistency and reliability of reported symptoms.
Policy Analysis
Synthesising clinical findings with the legal definitions of disability and incapacity found within the specific insurance contract.
Conditions That May Affect This Assessment
A range of psychiatric and psychological conditions can affect this assessment. These include:
The fluctuating nature of psychiatric conditions means that functional capacity must be assessed over a representative longitudinal period.
Assessment Process
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Instruction Received
Solicitor or insurer provides the formal letter of instruction and relevant policy documents for review.
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Expert Matched
We select the most suitable forensic psychiatrist or psychologist based on the specific clinical specialty required.
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Assessment Conducted
A comprehensive clinical interview is performed, either via secure video link or in-person at our UK clinics.
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Report Delivered
A report prepared in accordance with applicable procedural rules (including CPR Part 35 where required) is finalised and delivered, typically within the agreed expedited or standard timeframe.
Turnaround Times
| Urgency Level | Timescale |
|---|---|
| Standard Report | 4-6 weeks from assessment |
| Priority Report | 1-2 weeks |
| Urgent Report | 1-4 days |
What’s Included in the Report
All reports are written by seasoned expert witnesses prepared to provide oral testimony if the claim proceeds to a hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need a Income Protection Report?
Contact our team today for a CPR-compliant expert report. We provide specialist CVs and fee quotes for your Income Protection assessment within 60 minutes.
Related Insurance Claims Services
Evaluation of an individual’s psychological fitness to return to their specific job role.
Psychiatric evaluation of psychological trauma following accidents or clinical negligence.
Expert evidence for claims related to severe psychiatric disorders covered by critical illness policies.
Determining an individual’s capacity to make financial or legal decisions under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
Detailed assessment of cognitive impairment following brain injury or neurological illness.
Expert psychiatric reports for cases involving disability discrimination or unfair dismissal.
