COVID-19 Update

We're pleased to say that we're running business as usual - with a slightly reduced phone service while the Marmalade team work remotely - so we're still very much here to help. The quickest way to get in touch is by Livechat or email, however we're still on the phone if you need us on 0333 358 3441 (you may just have a slightly longer wait time than normal).

In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we’re closely following Public Health England guidelines and we have plans in place to maintain services for our customers, suppliers and stakeholders and to protect the welfare of our employees.

We’ve pulled together some frequently asked questions. We hope these help, and we would like to re-assure you that your insurance cover and ability to make a claim remains unaffected.

There is currently no guidance on taking private driving practice. However, as drivers are only allowed to make essential trips, we expect that learners would be allowed to take the wheel on such trips, provided they do not detour from the direct route and there is a valid reason for both the learner driver and supervising driver to be in the car at the time. Essential trips could include:

• To drive to or from a place of work or education
• To provide care or childcare for a family member
• To attend medial appointments or to collect essential supplies

It goes without saying that anyone self-isolating should not leave home at all.

Please read the government website for the latest Coronavirus information. If you are a driver in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, the rules around driving may differ, please check the gov.scot, gov.wales or nidirect.gov.uk websites for their specific advice.

Your insurance cover and your ability to make a claim during this time will not be affected. All drivers are covered for the purposes specified on their policy - this means that should you make a non-essential journey your cover will still be in force. There had been suggestion in the press that some car insurance policies will be invalid if you drive for a non-essential purpose. This is not the case. However, we do stress that you should follow government guidelines, as they are in place for good reason and for your own safety and well-being.

As you may be aware, many companies have their teams working remotely and may be managing with higher staff sickness than normal, so at these times it may take a little longer to get through on the phone. 

Due to the nature of motor insurance and our obligations to update the Motor Insurer’s Database with details of insurance that is in force, we are unable to pause the cover.

If you have a Black Box Insurance policy, whilst you may not be driving, your car is still insured against fire, theft and damage by a third party when it’s parked. Please note that insurance cover is a legal requirement, unless your car is registered SORN (Standard Off Road Notification) and isn’t parked on public roads. If you no longer require insurance, you can cancel your policy by contacting the team on Livechat or 0333 358 3441.

If you have a short-term policy with a week or more left on your Learner Driver Insurance or Student Driver Insurance policy, please contact us by email ([email protected]) and we will discuss the options with you.