Sesame Network has expanded its protection panel with the addition of seven providers.

The network has added British Friendly, Canada Life, Cirencester Friendly, Guardian, Shepherd’s Friendly, The Exeter and Unum.

These providers join Aegon, AIG, Aviva, L&G, LV=, Royal London, Scottish Widows, Vitality and Zurich, leaving the total number on the panel at 16.

Sesame to provide free wellbeing support to members

According to the network, the providers offer advisers additional support including adviser toolkits and calculators, along with videos and webinars

Richard Howells, managing director at Sesame Network, said: “Financial advisers have an incredibly important role looking after the health and financial wellbeing of customers and their families.

“However, putting protection front and center in these conversations requires the right level of knowledge and skills, backed by a comprehensive range of products to choose from. Our new expanded panel gives advisers more solutions and greater choice.

“This is particularly important right now given the increased consumer interest in protection cover brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, along with the regular criteria changes being made by product providers.

“Expanding our protection offering is valuable for customers, and it can help advisory firms to build value in their businesses too.”