Life-insurance concerns British?

Im at getting myself and life-insurance my husband looking.
Can someone please clarify for when you compare rates what i should be looking?
Also i have no idea how it functions so an explanation the ins and out ect, about life insurance will be great.

It was stated by somebody at work today and built me believe we ought to obtain it! We have every additional insurance avaliable! (vehicle, house, holida, telephone dog