Student campaign group Insure Tomorrow says there has been a “sharp and alarming” decline in interest in insurance careers in the UK.  

A survey of nearly 1000 students in Britain in March found just 8% are likely to pursue a career in the sector. 

Insure Tomorrow campaigns to stop insurers underwriting fossil fuel projects. 

It says students most frequently use the words “boring”, “dull”, “uninteresting” and “soul-destroying” when discussing insurance, and are seeking “meaningful, ethical careers and will vote with their feet when industries fall short of their values. 

“The insurance sector is facing a steep recruitment crisis. Graduates will help, but only if insurers show they are serious about cutting ties with fossil fuels, improving their public image, and offering careers that align with a sustainable future. 

“Without urgent change, the sector risks locking itself out of the next generation of talent.” 

Some polled by the group Students Organising for Sustainability describe the industry as “soulless” and “lucrative but unethical”. 

“They are brutal and money-hungry companies. Needs reforming,” said one student. 

Insure Tomorrow says there are perceptions of low excitement and lack of purpose, and 75% of students surveyed say insurers should focus on supporting environmentally beneficial projects such as renewable energy. 

“Failure to address both climate concerns and industry image could leave the sector facing a long-term workforce shortage,” the group said. 

See the survey results here.