UK Defensive Stocks to Protect Your Portfolio

When markets become uncertain, investors often seek ways to protect their investments. That’s where defensive stocks come in. These are companies that perform well even during tough economic times. Their products and services are always in demand, no matter what’s happening in the economy.

In this blog, we’ll walk through the best UK defensive stocks in 2025, how they work, and why they can add safety to your portfolio. If you’re investing in the UK and want to lower your risk, this is for you.

What Are Defensive Stocks?

Defensive stocks are associated with companies that provide essential products or services. People use them in good times and bad. These include:

Healthcare
Utilities
Consumer staples (daily-use goods)
Telecom services

These stocks often don’t grow very fast, but they stay stable, even when the market drops.

Why Defensive Stocks Matter in 2025

With rising interest rates, inflation concerns, and global events, market fluctuations are a common occurrence. Defensive stocks give you a shield when other shares fall.

Benefits include:

Lower price swings
Steady dividends
Less affected by the economic slowdown
Ideal for long-term safety

Top UK Defensive Stocks to Consider

Here are some of the most trusted defensive stocks listed in the UK:

1. Unilever (ULVR)

Sector: Consumer Staples
What it does: Owns household brands like Dove, Persil, and Hellmann’s
Why it’s defensive: People still buy soap, food, and personal care products during downturns
Bonus: Pays regular dividends

2. National Grid (NG)

Sector: Utilities
What it does: Manages the electricity and gas network across the UK
Why it’s defensive: Energy is always needed, even in recessions
Bonus: Reliable income through dividends

3. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

Sector: Healthcare
What it does: Develops medicines and vaccines
Why it’s defensive: Healthcare demand stays constant
Bonus: Strong track record in research and income

4. Severn Trent (SVT)

Sector: Water Utility
What it does: Supplies clean water and handles wastewater
Why it’s defensive: Water is an essential service
Bonus: Regulated pricing means steady income

5. Tesco (TSCO)

Sector: Retail (Consumer Staples)
What it does: One of the UK’s biggest supermarkets
Why it’s defensive: Food shopping doesn’t stop in a crisis
Bonus: Large market share and strong logistics

What Makes These Stocks Stand Out

They offer stability during downturns
Many pay dividends, which means income even when prices fall
They have strong customer bases
Their products are always in demand

These features make them a wise choice for people who want to protect their portfolios.

How to Add Defensive Stocks to Your Portfolio

Here’s a simple way to include these safe stocks in your investment plan:

Pick 3–4 companies from different sectors
Don’t invest everything at once—use monthly investments
Reinvest dividends to grow your holdings
Balance with growth stocks for long-term returns

To check available events, sessions, or expos in your city focused on safe stock investing, visit this page and explore more options tailored to UK investors in 2025.