If the policy has no investment element then it will have no cash in value at any time and will cease at the end of the term. If premiums are not maintained, then cover will lapse. The policy may not cover all the definitions of a critical illness. For definitions please refer to the key features and policy document. The value of the investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back as much as you put in.
Insurance that pays out when a defined medical event occurs. For example, following a heart attack, stroke, cancer or some other specifically defined critical illness.
Cover is for a set term, which may be equal to a mortgage term, for when children have grown up, until retirement or another life stage milestone.
It may be worth considering having one policy for a set term to cover the mortgage, and another that will provide money to help provide for your different lifestyle if a serious illness happens. Most people choose a lump sum to be paid out. There is the option of receiving it as set income over the term remaining, which is often a lower cost option.