Columbus Direct has launched its new direct to consumer income protection product.

Cover starts from £2.20 per month, with the product providing different levels of cover including accident and sickness, unemployment and protection in the event of redundancy.

Customers are able to create a bespoke package of insurance by choosing which level of cover best suits their needs.

Greg Lawson, managing director at Columbus Direct, said: “The launch of our new income protection product demonstrates how we are growing as a business. Whilst travel insurance will continue to be our specialism, we are looking to further serve our customers with a greater range of products that will complement our current offering.

“Whilst we understand that protecting your income following an accident or illness is important, we have included the option of unemployment cover. Our research has shown that, despite the recent fall in unemployment, redundancy is still an area of real concern to many people who have financial commitments that they would not be able to fulfil if they were to lose their job.

“We are also encouraging people to shop around when it comes to income protection insurance as many people accept the product that is offered to them by their bank or building society, but significant savings can be made for the same cover, or they may even find an improved product.”