When you create a new client reference code you will be asked to provide the first three characters of the client's postal code of residence. While this is technically a mandatory field (you must enter something before moving on), service providers are encouraged to enter "Do not know (UNK)" until sufficient rapport exists with the client to ask about the area where they live.
You can always update the postal code of residence at a later point by finding the client reference code and clicking the Client Details button.
Tips for asking for a client's postal code of residence:
- If the client seems uncomfortable with providing this information, simply put "Do not know (UNK)"
- Be aware that "No fixed addressess (NFA)" is an option when relevant
- Assign postal code FSAs to the different areas/neighborhoods your agency typically serves.
- For example, in West Toronto, MJ6 generally aligns with Little Portugal, M6K aligns with Parkdale Village, M6P aligns with High Park, etc.
- The ONHRDB System Administrator can help you develop resources/tools to use this information (e.g. an FSA map)
- Try framing the question as "What neighborhood do you reside in?", "What part of the city do you live in?", "Where are you coming from today?", etc.
