Half of workers assume their boss would foot the bill for long-term sick leave.
Research by think-tank Demos has found that, while one in 10 of us will face a period of sickness absence of more than 6 months during our working lives, 51%of employees assume their employer would pay full salary for at least 3-6 months.
Almost 1 in 4 (23%) respondents admitted having no financial safety net in the event they would be unable to work long-term.
Over a third (35%) said they would rely on their own savings. However, 49% had less than £2,000 to support themselves and their family - the equivalent of just one month's average salary.
The majority of under-45s surveyed would welcome their employer helping them plan their financial protection. However, three quarters of workers (77%) said their employer either did not offer, or make them aware of, any insurance support.
Commenting, Peter O'Donnell, CEO of Unum, said: "Given the risk and potential impact, it is no surprise that consumer organisation Which? describes Income Protection as a ‘must-have' for UK workers.
"Workplace protection policies are typically cheaper and more easily available than individual cover."
