Paradigm Consulting has announced a strategic partnership with financial vulnerability software provider, Comentis.

Comentis is designed to support advisory firms in meeting their Consumer Duty responsibilities around vulnerability. It helps to identify and support vulnerable customers through its digital financial vulnerability assessment, which supports firms to evidence good outcomes in this area.

By utilising the Comentis solution, users of Paradigm Consulting’s support services can now strengthen their approach to this aspect of advice by consistently and objectively identifying vulnerable clients, while providing greater focus on the importance of vulnerability in relation to Consumer Duty.

Furthermore, Paradigm Consulting’s services will also produce clear, auditable management information and reporting, and embed vulnerability assessments into their advice processes with minimal disruption.

Comentis’ financial vulnerability assessment solution is already used by over 1,000 advisory firms and has carried out more than 300,000 client assessments.

Managing director at Paradigm Consulting, Bob Hunt, said: "One of the ongoing challenges advisory firms face is both identifying and supporting vulnerable customers in what is a difficult environment, and where the signs of vulnerability might not always be easily visible.

"At the same time, advisory firms have to meet their regulatory - and client - responsibilities in this area, and this new strategic partnership with Comentis gives our clients access to a digital solution which can do all this and much more. This solution is at the cutting edge of what is achievable and we’re looking forward to working with the Comentis team and highlighting its proposition to our advisory firm clients, in what is a very important area for all."

Chief executive and co-founder at Comentis, Jonathan Barrett, added: "With the FCA’s unwavering focus on the Consumer Duty, firms must ensure they are not only supporting their vulnerable clients, but doing so with consistency and depth. We are delighted to announce our strategic partnership with Paradigm Consulting, which will empower their clients to meet these regulatory requirements and, crucially, provide the robust evidence needed to demonstrate positive outcomes for those in vulnerable circumstances.

"The FCA estimates that one in two adults may be at risk of financial vulnerability. Identifying these individuals is a critical first step in ensuring they receive the support they deserve. It is time for duty of care to evolve; client vulnerability should no longer be viewed as a tactical checkbox, but rather as a core strategic driver for every firm. We are pleased to support Paradigm Consulting and its clients on this important journey."

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