As a support worker, time is limited, and efficiency is key. The faster you complete a client’s profile, the quicker they can access the right support. This guide highlights the essential profile sections that impact support matches the most, helping you prioritise key areas and ask the right questions.

Jump to: 

Start here: the most impactful sections

To get the fastest and most relevant support matches, focus on these three areas first:

Employment & armed forces history

If your client needs job-related support, complete:

  • Have they (or family members) served in HM Armed Forces?
     Some grants and schemes are only available for veterans and their families.

  • Which roles/industries have they worked in?
     Certain industries have dedicated financial aid, career transition support, and sector-specific grants.

How can we help you? (support needs section)

This is one of the most important sections—it directly affects matching accuracy. Key areas to complete:

  • Essential items – For food, clothing, and basic needs support.

  • Financial help – Grants, hardship funds, and emergency financial assistance.

  • Training/education funding – Scholarships, training grants, and skill-building support.

  • Home improvements/household items – Support for furniture, appliances, or home adaptations.

Postcode & location

  • Why it matters: A lot of support services are location-based. Entering an accurate postcode ensures the client is matched with local food banks, housing support, and financial aid schemes in their area.

Unlock more support: additional key sections

If time allows, completing these sections significantly expands support options:

Household & living situation

Many services prioritise clients based on housing status, dependents, or disabilities. Complete:

  • Housing status – Access to homelessness prevention, rent support, and housing adaptations.

  • Dependent children – Unlocks family-focused grants, childcare assistance, and essential household support.

  • Illness, injury, or disability – Provides access to medical grants, disability-related financial aid, and specialist services.

Financial circumstances

These details help identify low-income support and financial aid:

  • Do they receive benefits? – Determines eligibility for additional grants and financial assistance.

  • Income and savings – Many schemes are income-based, so entering this ensures maximum support access.

  • Financial struggles – If the client is struggling with rent, council tax, or energy bills, this section connects them with the right support schemes.

Need to save time? Prioritise these quick wins

If you have limited time in a client meeting, start with:
 ✔ How can we help you? (This drives the most accurate matches.)
 ✔ Postcode (Ensures access to local support.)
 ✔ Employment history (Unlocks job-related grants.)
 ✔ Financial situation (Increases financial aid options.)

Once these are complete, additional details can be added later if needed.

Next steps

We recommend moving onto the next guide on completing applications.

Or return to the support worker guides index.


Need further assistance?

If you have any questions or encounter any difficulties, please don't hesitate to contact us at hello@lightningreach.org