Markets/Coverages: Hiscox Launches Sexual Molestation Liability Cover

Global specialist insurer, Hiscox, has announced the appointment of Harriet Turner to its London Market business to lead its new sexual molestation liability (SML) cover – expanding its existing range of casualty products.

Hiscox’s launch of SML cover is designed to offer protection for a wide range of possible claims and liabilities involving sexual misconduct, molestation or abuse against employees. It is available to large organizations globally across a wide range of industries including health and social care, leisure and financial services.

The SML product will also cover related legal costs and damages or settlements resulting from claims made during the policy term. In addition, SML clients will benefit from the services of global specialist risk consultancy, Control Risks, who provide both pre-incident review and post-incident support.

Uniquely, once the terms and pricing of the SML policy are established with a potential client, Control Risks will review the strength of the organization’s risk management and compliance programs to identify any gaps and make recommendations for improvements. The client can present these findings to Hiscox as independent confirmation that they match Hiscox’s requirements and risk tolerance before they bind cover. If those requirements are not met, the organization has an opportunity to make internal improvements before cover is reconsidered.

Turner will join Hiscox from Beazley, where she has held a range of underwriting and strategy positions. This includes working as part of the chief underwriting officer’s office, and underwriting classes of business including employment practices liability, private D&O and fiduciary.

Turner takes up her role within the Hiscox London Market General Liability team in September 2025 and will be based in London.

“Expanding into sexual molestation liability broadens out our existing liability offering and responds to an increasing demand for this type of cover from clients and brokers,” commented Colin Buchanan, Hiscox London Market’s casualty divisional director in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming Harriet to the team, whose background in underwriting liability products will establish Hiscox as a go-to market for sexual molestation liability protection.”

Based in Bermuda, the Hiscox Group employs over 3,000 people in 13 countries and has customers worldwide. Through the retail businesses in the UK, Europe, Asia and the U.S., it offers a range of specialist insurance products in commercial and personal lines. Internationally traded, bigger ticket business and reinsurance is underwritten through Hiscox London Market and Hiscox Re & ILS.

Source: Hiscox

Topics New Markets Liability