TAL Risk Academy launches client care program for advisers

TAL has launched a new course focused on training financial advisers to better support clients’ mental health and those experiencing vulnerability. 

Starting on 13 September in the lead up to Mental Health Awareness Month in October, the life insurer’s Client Care Series will include live and on-demand content to help advisers with client wellbeing.

The course will feature two webinars, jointly delivered by Glenn Baird, TAL’s head of mental health, and Vaish Harishanker, mental health coordinator. 

The first webinar will focus on how to identify when a client is at an increased risk of self-harm and the appropriate support services for at-risk individuals.

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Advisers will then learn a framework for effectively communicating with vulnerable groups in their clientbase through a “person-centred approach” in the second webinar. 

According to Baird, it can be challenging and emotionally demanding for advisers to have discussions with vulnerable clients.

“It can be difficult to have conversations around sensitive topics but there are certain skills and tools which can assist,” he said.

Research from TAL demonstrates the growing demand across Australia for adviser-focused education on mental health. 

The firm’s 2022 report, surveying 125 advisers, discovered that 68 per cent of respondents said receiving training on how to support clients who were going through an emotional time would benefit them to provide the best possible client service during the claims process.

Baird added that the groups of clients that advisers may consider vulnerable and in need of additional support are continuing to change, especially post-COVID.

“As an organisation committed to supporting the health and financial wellbeing of Australians, our in-house health services team plays an active role in enhancing advisers’ level of understanding and knowledge around mental health, to help them feel more confident supporting clients who may be vulnerable,” he continued. 

TAL’s Baird is a qualified psychotherapist, facilitator and trainer with more than 14 years’ experience. He has primarily worked with suicidal clients from diverse backgrounds, including professional athletes, corporate lawyers and tradespeople.