UK firms are already starting to see a change in their workforce demographics, prompting fears that ageing workforce health issues will affect their company, Aviva's annual Health of the Workplace report has found.

Canada Life Group Insurance has highlighted the importance of age-appropriate benefits in the workplace.

Friends Life will be running a group protection workshop for intermediaries next week.

The basic cost of a funeral has risen, up 6.2% from £3,091 in 2011 to £3,284; contributing to a 71% increase from 2004.

PruProtect has announced new business premiums up 39% compared to the same period in 2011, in the provider's annual results for 2011-2012.

AXA PPP International has appointed of AIMS, Medilink and Medscheme (based in Johannesburg, Nairobi and Mauritius respectively) to provide claims assistance services and facilitate members' access to medical treatment across Africa.

HIV Positive people taking out HIV Life Assurance are insuring themselves for an average of £134,667, according to IFAs Unusual Risks.

Competitors Enrich and Benefex have become flexible benefit partners in a bid to offer end-to-end solutions - from broking services to flex software - to all sizes of client.

Attempted fraud in the insurance industry fell by 16% between April and June 2012, according to new figures released by Experian.

Aviva has swooped to appoint a new head of fraud for underwriting, pricing and product to boost front-end fraud detection.