A vulnerable client is someone who, due to their personal circumstances, is especially susceptible to harm. Vulnerability may impact someone’s ability to engage with financial services and/or impede their judgement. All clients are at risk of becoming vulnerable, dependent on their circumstances.
There are a number of factors that could contribute to a person becoming vulnerable – here are four key drivers.
Health – health conditions or illnesses can affect someone’s ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Addiction-related conditions such as gambling or compulsive behaviours can also contribute to vulnerability.
Life events – Some life events can impact a person’s vulnerability, for example bereavement, job loss or relationship breakdown.
Resilience – Some people can become more vulnerable due to a low ability to withstand financial or emotional shocks.
Capability – low levels knowledge of financial matters or low confidence in managing money (financial capability) can also contribute to vulnerability. Equally, low capabilities in other relevant areas such as literacy, or digital skills may also become a factor.
Vulnerability isn’t always perceptible – we rely on our clients to make us aware of any situation that could affect their vulnerability. If you feel that you may be impacted by any of the factors above – or any others that might impact your vulnerability – it’s important that you let us know as soon as possible. Our Customer Support Team are available via email, phone, or chat.
We’ve put comprehensive policies and procedures in place to deal with client vulnerability. Circumstances can change – clients may become more or less vulnerable, and so have an increased or reduced risk of harm depending on their current environment. With this in mind, we review all instances of potential vulnerability on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the various aspects of a client’s unique situation.
When responding to potential vulnerability, OANDA Crypto may take steps to monitor and support clients who have demonstrated characteristics of vulnerability. In some circumstances, we may take steps to restrict or close client accounts if we determine that a client is especially susceptible to harm.
You may wish to seek help from external parties. Here are a few useful resources:
- Citizens Advice
- BeGambleAware
- StepChange (debt charity)
- Mind (mental health charity)
- AgeUK
- The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
- Action on Hearing Loss (RNID)
- Samaritans