Vulnerable Customer Policy

Vulnerable Customer Policy

At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we are committed to providing a professional and supportive service to all of our clients. We understand that some individuals may face circumstances that make them more vulnerable, either temporarily or on an ongoing basis. Our aim is to ensure that every customer is treated fairly, with dignity and respect, and that we deliver outcomes that meet their individual needs.

What Is a Vulnerable Customer?

A vulnerable customer is someone who, due to their personal circumstances, may be less able to make informed decisions or may be at greater risk of financial harm. This vulnerability may be permanent, temporary, or fluctuating.

Examples of vulnerability may include (but are not limited to):

  • Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression
  • Physical disability or illness
  • Cognitive impairment or learning difficulties
  • Bereavement, divorce, or other significant life events
  • Low literacy, language barriers, or difficulty understanding complex information
  • Financial hardship or debt
  • Age-related challenges (elderly or very young adults)

We acknowledge that vulnerability is personal and varied. It can affect anyone at any time.

Our Commitment to You

We take our responsibility seriously and will always:

  • Treat customers with sensitivity, empathy, and patience
  • Offer information in a way that is clear, jargon-free, and easy to understand
  • Make reasonable adjustments to how we deliver our services to support your needs
  • Take extra care when providing advice to ensure full understanding and suitability
  • Never rush or pressure customers into decisions
  • Signpost or refer to external support services where appropriate
  • Protect your privacy and treat all disclosures in strict confidence

How We Identify and Support Vulnerable Customers

Our staff receive training to help them recognise signs of vulnerability and respond appropriately. If we identify that you may be vulnerable, or if you choose to share information with us, we will:

  • Ask how you would prefer to communicate (e.g., phone, email, letter, in-person)
  • Offer extra time and explanation when discussing products or documents
  • Involve a trusted third party at your request
  • Take steps to ensure you understand the information and implications of any decisions
  • Tailor our service based on your preferences and needs

Letting Us Know

If you believe you may be in a vulnerable situation or feel that additional support would help you, please let us know. We’re here to help and will do our utmost to make the process easier and more comfortable for you.

📞 Call us on 01257 543013
📧 Email: compliance@orchardfinancialsolutions.co.uk
📝 Or use our contact form

All information shared will be treated in the strictest confidence and only used to improve your experience with us.

Continuous Improvement

We regularly review our Vulnerable Customer Policy to ensure it remains effective and relevant. Feedback is always welcome to help us improve how we support our clients.

Updated 8th August 2025

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