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<p><strong>By: Western National Insurance</strong></p>

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<p>These are extraordinary times that require us all to work together. We are in unchartered territory and face a great deal of uncertainty as to the way forward, and no doubt we’ll continue to encounter many challenges. “At Western National Insurance, we believe that the challenges ahead can be overcome if insurers, brokers and clients work together, says Jurgen Hellweg, CEO of Western National Insurance.</p>

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<h4><strong>Our motto of “Rethink Insurance” has never been more relevant</strong></h4>

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<p>“We do not believe that ‘<em>one size fits all’</em> applies to the current challenges being experienced. Our action plan to provide some relief to clients will mainly centre around engaging with our brokers on a case by case basis. This will ensure a flexible and fluid approach to finding the best available solution for all of our clients,” he says.</p>

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<h4><strong>Two initiatives launched </strong></h4>

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<p><strong><em>Motor premium discount</em></strong></p>

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<p>Western will be applying a 25% discount on motor cover for all clients during the month of May 2020. All cover terms will remain unaltered and premiums will revert as normal from June 2020, subject to any actions implemented on a case by case basis. “This discount is based on our calculated reduction in risk and exposure due to fewer vehicles being on the road during the lockdown period, and aims to pass on this saving to our policyholders,” Hellweg adds.</p>

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<p><strong><em>Policy renewal relief </em></strong></p>

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<p>To further support key clients in the immediate future, Western has introduced a flat renewal on all policies that are up for renewal during May to July. Policies that qualify will either have a loss ratio of 60% or less over a three-year period, or the lifecycle of the policy.</p>

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<p>“We are not postponing the renewal increase for this period. We are renewing on unaltered terms with the next renewal scheduled for the 2021 policy anniversary. It is very important for brokers to still engage with their clients during this renewal period, as changes to clients’ risk profiles must be addressed and noted in policies,” Hellweg says.</p>

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<h4><strong>Case by case support</strong></h4>

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<p>Key clients significantly impacted by COVID-19 can seek further assistance if needed. “Our distribution team will continue to engage with our brokers to identify our clients that have been most significantly impacted by COVID-19, to provide them with unique and individual solutions. The specific solution will be based on qualifying criteria, and we believe brokers are best placed to assist us with what comes next. Western will continue to operate optimally, and we were fortunately well-positioned to continue with work before lockdown began,” Hellweg concludes.</p>

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