Frequently asked questions regarding "Vocasure"

Stuart Alexander Insurance and Risk Management is offering an insurance package tailored specifically for qualified practitioners of the various beauty, hairdressing, holistic therapy and massage courses accredited by Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT).

	In association with VTCT, here are some of the benefits Stuart Alexander can offer: Provides cover against claims made by third parties following negligence. Option to extend cover to include business equipment In association with a leading, financially strong UK insurer. ‘Plain English’ policy wording with a simple application process. Tailored to your specific needs. In-house claims assistance. The product offers complete peace of mind at very competitive rates.
	How do I arrange cover? Apply on-line at: www.stuartalexander.co.uk/apply.cfm and simply click on the Vocasure - Qualified Practitioner Link Alternatively complete the attached proposal form and post back to our Southampton office: Stuart Alexander – VocaSure, Kilgraston House, Southampton Street, Southampton SO15 2ED Should you wish to discuss any aspect of your insurance requirements, contact our Southampton office on 02380 339 662.
	Why do I need Insurance? Despite your best intentions and commitment to professionalism accidents can happen and understandably the third party involved may look to pursue a claim against you. On the rare occasion that this occurs, having an effective, tailor-made insurance policy in place will provide you with complete peace of mind.
	What type of Policy do I need? If you are enrolled on a VTCT or accredited course you will require student insurance, and once you have successfully completed your course you are entitled to arrange cover as a qualified practitioner. This policy will provide cover for any claim made against you during this activity however accidental that negligence might be. The cover will provide protection against your legal liability for damage to third party property and personal injury. Cover may be extended to include Business Equipment with various sums insured applicable depending on whether you are seeking student or qualified practitioner´s cover. The basis of cover is "All Risks" anywhere in the UK. In addition, other extensions of cover are available under the qualified practitioner´s cover.
	How much am I insured for? The amount of cover provided is usually expressed as an Indemnity Limit and will be for £3,000,000 plus legal costs and expenses.
	On whom am I insured to practise? Any person who has requested you to deliver your skills as a therapist and for which you hold an appropriate approved qualification recognised by VTCT.
	Where am I covered to practise? Typical policy cover would be at your home, another person´s home or premises. If trading from a business premises and / or employing staff, please contact Stuart Alexander.
	Are there any exclusions? All insurance policies will have some exclusions as an insurance company is not able to offer cover against all types of risk or circumstances. Typical exclusions will be:- Policy Excess – In the event of damage to your own Business Equipment (if insured) and / or another person´s property you will not be insured for any claim below a certain value. Geographical Limit – You will not be insured unless you are resident and practising in the United Kingdom excluding the Irish Republic. Therapy/Treatment – You will only be insured for those therapies and treatments that you have disclosed on your proposal and have been accepted for by the insurance company. You must contact Stuart Alexander if you wish to undertake any changes in your insurance cover.
	How much is the insurance? For a qualified practitioner, the cover starts from approximately £55 per annum for £3 million public/treatment liability. Student cover is available from just under £40 for limit of indemnity of £1million. For both types of cover we are able to include cover for your Business Equipment for an additional premium.
	Why is there such a range in the price of insurance? We have categorised the therapies into two bands. Category 1 is what we class as "low risk" therapies. e.g. massage, beauty therapy etc. "Riskier" therapies such as waxing and thermal auricular therapy are category 2 and therefore more expensive to insure.
	What happens if I pass more therapies, can I add them onto my existing policy? You can add as many therapies from our list to your policy as you wish but remember your premium may change depending on whether it is in a higher category or not.
	Can I cancel my policy? You have the right to cancel your policy within 14 days and you will be entitled to a full refund. If after the 14 days you choose to cancel your policy, we will calculate the refund on a pro-rata basis and will provide you with the appropriate refund. The refund will be subject to a £25 administration charge. Due to the level of premiums involved students will not receive a refund.
	Are the policies renewable? Qualified Practitioners cover is renewable every 12 months and a renewal reminder will be sent to you approximately one month before the policy is due to expire. Due to the duration of most therapy courses, student cover is non renewable.