LV has appointed Andrea Fields as its rehabilitation manager with a special focus on mental health.
The insurer and protection specialist's new hire will help income protection claimants stay in or return to work during their recovery by offering them the support they need as swiftly as possible.
Ms Fields will help develop the insurer's early intervention services and act as a 'mental health first aid instructor', making sure staff have the relevant training in providing advice on mental health issues.
Last year one in five (18 per cent) of all new income protection claims at LV were mental health related.
Ms Fields previously worked for 25 years at Aviva Health, most recently as senior rehabilitation case manager, managing vocational programmes to help clients return to work. Before that she was a critical illness team manager at Abbey Life.
Myles Rix, managing director of LV Protection, said Ms Fields' appointment was evidence of the insurer's aim to provide support for clients "above and beyond" the financial help offered by their policy.
“In recent months, we’ve increased our investment in rehabilitation services and offer a wide range of practical treatment and support options for our customers," he said.
"Andrea brings a wealth of experience, particularly in mental health, and will be a valuable addition to our growing protection team.”
Ms Fields said: "I look forward to combining my skills as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, with my strong industry experience, to help LV deliver market-leading rehabilitation services that ensure clients receive vital care and support in their time of need.”
