A planned UK referral service to help older customers obtain correct levels of cover says a person’s age should not be the sole measure of a risk.

Until now customers who find it difficult getting insurance because of their age have been left on their own to find a solution, and have often experienced difficulties obtaining economic cover because of their age.

But a Government Equalities Office (GEO) consultation report suggests the use of a “signposting” service so brokers can assist in areas such as motor and travel insurance, which have been identified as the key stress points for older people trying to obtain cover.

The GEO report says under its proposals insurance companies will still be able to use age when assessing risk and deciding on price, but will be required to base these decisions on solid evidence rather than imposing a blanket age-based measure.

Insurers will also be asked to help people find an alternative provider if they are unable to provide cover for age-related reasons.

The British Insurance Brokers’ Association says it has been calling for greater assistance for consumers and even established its own help line in this area.

The paper is open for comment for three months.