Financial planners and solicitors often serve clients from a wide range of backgrounds with different life experiences and goals.

In many cases, the support clients need is immediately apparent. However, some clients may face challenges that aren’t as visible or that they’re hesitant to disclose. They may not realise they need extra help, be unaware of the support available, or feel reluctant to speak up about personal struggles.

These clients – often described as “vulnerable” – may benefit from a different approach.

Read on to explore the different types of vulnerability, how to identify them, and the practical steps professionals can take to offer meaningful, lasting support.

Multiple forms of vulnerability can be broadly grouped into 4 categories

Vulnerability can take many forms, but it’s generally grouped into four main categories:

• Health-related issues – This includes physical or mental disabilities, chronic or terminal illnesses, addiction, mental health conditions, and sensory impairments such as hearing or vision loss.
• Life events – These may involve significant personal changes such as bereavement, job loss or income shock, relationship breakdown, or experiences of domestic or financial abuse.
• Resilience challenges – Clients facing financial instability, such as erratic income, high levels of debt, or a lack of savings, may be particularly vulnerable during periods of stress or change.
• Capability issues – These can include low financial literacy or confidence, poor numeracy or literacy skills, learning difficulties, or limited digital access or knowledge.

In some situations, a client’s vulnerability may be clearly identifiable, such as if they have a physical disability. But often, it’s far more nuanced. Challenges like mental health struggles, addiction, or a lack of confidence can take time to recognise.

In other cases, the indicators may be subtle and easy to overlook. For example, a client affected by financial abuse or navigating emotional distress might appear composed on the surface, while quiet signals – like hesitation, inconsistent information, or changes in behaviour – could suggest deeper issues.

You might also observe that a client appears anxious, withdrawn, or unusually quiet during meetings, particularly if their partner dominates the conversation. Signs can also emerge through paperwork or financial patterns, such as a client taking on debt for someone else or submitting a form that’s been filled out in another person’s handwriting, with only their signature added.

These situations call for a sensitive, attentive approach, and it’s important that you are alert to the less visible signs.

4 ways financial planners and solicitors can offer long-term support to vulnerable clients

With the right approach, financial planners and solicitors can make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable clients. By working collaboratively, we can ensure that our clients receive holistic support that addresses both their financial and legal needs.

Here are four ways our sectors can support vulnerable clients more effectively.

1. Register a Lasting Power of Attorney

Some vulnerable clients may need a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to ensure that trusted individuals can make financial or health-related decisions on their behalf, should they lose the capacity to do so themselves.

Financial planners can support clients and their appointed attorneys by structuring their finances to protect assets, meet long-term goals, and ensure their continued financial stability. They can also review current arrangements and recommend steps to safeguard the client’s financial wellbeing.

Solicitors play a key role in drafting and registering the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian, ensuring the document is legally valid, appropriately worded, and aligned with the client’s best interests.

2. Set up trusts

Trusts offer vulnerable clients a secure and flexible way to manage their assets, protect wealth, and provide for dependents. They can also help shield assets from misuse or care-related costs.

Financial planners can advise on the most suitable type of trust based on the client’s individual circumstances, goals, and family structure. They also assess the tax implications and help optimise the financial benefits of the trust.

Solicitors ensure the legal structure of the trust is sound, assist with its establishment, and provide guidance on ongoing administration and distribution according to the client’s wishes.

3. Plan for care

Proactively planning for future care needs is essential for vulnerable clients. It ensures their wellbeing while preserving their financial independence and protecting assets for future generations.

Financial planners can help assess care funding options, such as immediate needs annuities or lifetime care plans, and advise on how to structure assets to reduce the impact of means testing. They can also incorporate trusts or gifting strategies into the overall plan.

Solicitors support this by offering legal advice on care entitlements, navigating the legal aspects of asset protection, and establishing the necessary legal documents, including LPAs and care-related trusts.

4. Provide debt management assistance

Vulnerable clients experiencing financial difficulty may benefit from debt support to regain control and reduce stress.

Financial planners can review the client’s finances, develop realistic debt repayment plans, and suggest tools or strategies to manage or consolidate debt. They may also refer clients to reputable organisations like the National Debtline or Step Change for additional specialist support.

Solicitors can advise on legal aspects of debt, such as negotiating with creditors, handling insolvency procedures, or applying for debt relief orders. They also help clients understand their legal rights and protections when facing debt recovery action.

How to offer immediate support to vulnerable clients

While long-term planning is essential, financial planners and solicitors can also make a meaningful impact through immediate, practical adjustments that help vulnerable clients feel more comfortable, understood, and supported.

Here are some simple but effective ways to offer immediate support:

• Provide accessible formats – Offer documents in larger print, Braille, or audio format. Use screen readers or other technologies where needed.
• Use inclusive communication methods – Engage with clients through Text Talk services, or offer video calls with subtitles or sign language interpretation.
• Offer signature alternatives – Allow for digital signatures, stamps, or other legally accepted alternatives when written signatures are difficult.
• Signpost additional support – Direct clients to trusted external organisations or charities that specialise in the type of support they may need.
• Work with translators or advocates – When language or communication barriers exist, involving a translator or a third-party advocate can help ensure clarity and comfort.

In addition, several conversational frameworks exist to help professionals tailor their approach to different types of vulnerabilities. These models can guide you on how to structure sensitive conversations and ensure clients feel safe and respected. You can find out more about these in this Just Adviser handbook.

Get in touch

To find out more about how our sectors can work together to support vulnerable clients, get in touch.

Email info@blueskyifas.co.uk or call us on 0118 987 6655.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.