Charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profit entities are operating in an increasingly challenging environment.
Rising regulatory expectations, evolving reporting standards and growing scrutiny over the use of funds mean it is more important than ever to have an accountant who truly understands the sector.
We have a dedicated team of specialists providing tailored accounting, audit and advisory services to charities and not-for-profit organisations of all sizes.
Having built a substantial and diverse client base across the sector, we are well placed to support you with both day-to-day compliance and longer-term strategic planning.
Specialist support for a complex regulatory landscape
We provide expert advice on compliance with the Charities Act and the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), including support as SORP requirements continue to evolve.
We work closely with trustees and management teams to ensure annual reports and accounts remain compliant and reflective of the organisation’s activities and goals.
Our team stays up to date with the latest developments in charity accounting, audit requirements and UK charity law, helping you navigate change with confidence rather than reacting at the last minute.
Our services include:
- Preparation and audit or independent examination of charity accounts
- Advice on the application of SORP to annual reports and financial statements
- Support with ongoing and future changes to SORP requirements
- Compliance advice under the Charities Act and related regulations
Proactive advice beyond compliance
We believe strong charities benefit from proactive financial advice, not just year-end compliance.
Our team works alongside trustees to support effective governance, planning and risk management.
Our taxation services cover key areas affecting charities, including:
- VAT advice and partial exemption
- Gift Aid procedures and compliance
- Advice on investments, grants and funding streams
We also provide specialist support around charitable status, incorporation and the formation of Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs), ensuring the chosen structure supports your aims and operational needs.
Audit, funding and specialist assurance for charities
Smailes Goldie undertakes external and internal audits for charitable organisations, as well as funding audits where required.
This includes experience with ESD and ERD funding audits, giving funders confidence that resources are being managed appropriately.
Our partner, Luke Taylor, has significant experience advising charities and not-for-profit organisations and is regularly asked to support on complex or sensitive matters affecting the third sector.
His proactive approach means charities benefit from ongoing input, not just advice at fixed reporting points.
Practical back-up and outsourced support
In addition to advisory and audit services, we provide essential operational support through our specialist outsourcing division, SG Outsourcing. This includes:
- Bookkeeping and payroll services
- Advice on accounting systems
- Support with financial information management and reporting
This joined-up approach allows charities to focus on delivering their objectives, confident that their financial processes are robust and well supported.
Speak to our charity specialists
If you would like to discuss how Smailes Goldie can support your charity or not-for-profit organisation, including help navigating ever-changing SORP requirements, please contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Key contacts:
We have been extremely pleased with the service provided by Smailes Goldie in supporting our Charitable Trust. Their professionalism, expertise, and understanding of the local charity sector have been outstanding.
Our main point of contact has been excellent throughout. They consistently raise thoughtful and insightful points at board meetings, helping us consider important financial and governance matters we might otherwise overlook. Their input adds real value to our decision-making.
They are always approachable and readily contactable, responding promptly to queries and explaining complex matters in a clear, straightforward way. I particularly appreciate how they take the time to ensure I fully understand the answers to my questions.
