Why we ask you to link your bank account
When you apply for support through Lightning Reach, the organisation reviewing your application may need to check your recent bank statements to confirm your financial situation.
In the past, that meant emailing or uploading statements yourself.
Lightning Reach makes this process quicker, easier, and more secure – so you stay in control while the grants team gets the information they need to make a decision faster.
How it works
We use Open Banking to give the team reviewing your application secure, read-only access to your transaction history.
It only shows the same details you’d find on a normal bank statement
It helps the team review your application faster
It removes the need to upload or send statements manually
You can also watch our short video guide to see how it works.
Who provides the connection
Lightning Reach uses a trusted technology provider called Plaid to securely connect your bank account.
Plaid is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), firm reference number 804718
They support many leading banks, financial apps, and large companies worldwide
You’ll always have control over which accounts you connect and what information is shared.
Is it secure?
Yes – your privacy and security are our top priorities.
The connection is read-only
We never see your login details or passwords
Your information is only shared with the organisation reviewing your application – and only for that purpose
If you ever need any help using Lightning Reach, you can contact our friendly support team at hello@lightningreach.org.