Charities and Not-for-Profit Services
Specialist charity accounting, audit and independent examination support for charities, CIOs and not-for-profit organisations
At Rayner Essex, we understand the increasing pressures facing charities and not-for-profit organisations. Trustees are managing growing compliance responsibilities, changing reporting requirements, tighter funding scrutiny and increasing expectations around transparency and governance.
Our specialist charity team supports charities, charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs), trusts, community organisations and wider not-for-profit entities across London, St Albans and throughout the UK.
We provide independent examinations of charity accounts, charity audits, accounts preparation and ongoing advisory support tailored to the sector.
We work closely with trustees and finance teams to provide clear, specialist advice that helps organisations remain compliant, strengthen financial management and focus on delivering impact.
Charity accounting, audit and advisory support
We offer a full range of charity accounting, charity audit and compliance services designed to support organisations of all sizes.
Our services include:
- Independent examinations of charity accounts
- Statutory charity audits
- Charity accounts preparation
- Charity SORP reporting
- Trustee reporting support
- Charity governance and compliance advice
- Charity tax advice
- VAT advice for charities
- Gift Aid advice
- Payroll and bookkeeping support
- Management accounts and financial reporting
- Our team provides ongoing support that extends beyond year-end compliance requirements.
Independent examination services for charities
An independent examination is a form of external review for charities that is less detailed than a statutory audit, while still providing trustees, funders and stakeholders with reassurance that the charity’s accounts have been reviewed appropriately.
During an independent examination of charity accounts, the examiner reviews the charity’s accounting records and financial statements to identify whether:
Proper accounting records have been maintained
The accounts are consistent with the underlying records
The accounts comply with the applicable reporting framework
There are any matters trustees should be aware of
Independent examinations are commonly required for charities that do not meet the statutory audit threshold but still require external review under Charity Commission rules.
Our experienced charity specialists provide independent examination services that are efficient, proportionate and fully compliant with current charity reporting requirements, helping trustees meet their reporting obligations while providing reassurance to funders, regulators and stakeholders.
Charity SORP and trustee reporting support
Charity SORP provides the framework charities use to prepare accounts and annual reports in line with current charity reporting requirements.
We support charities with:
- Charity SORP reporting requirements
- Annual accounts preparation
- Trustee reporting obligations
- Governance and compliance support
- Financial controls and reporting processes
Supporting charities and trustees in a changing regulatory environment
Charities and not-for-profit organisations continue to operate in an increasingly challenging environment, balancing rising operational costs, funding pressures, evolving reporting requirements and increasing expectations around transparency and governance.
Our role is to provide strategic financial and compliance support that helps trustees and finance teams make informed decisions, manage reporting responsibilities with confidence, while supporting long-term organisational resilience.
We work closely with charities and not-for-profit organisations as an extension of your team, helping you:
- Strengthen financial reporting processes
- Enhance governance processes
- Maintain effective financial controls
- Navigate reporting obligations with confidence
- Focus on supporting your communities and stakeholders
Our partner-led approach helps reduce the burden of day-to-day compliance while supporting effective financial management and good governance.
Charities and not-for-profit organisations choose Rayner Essex because we combine technical expertise with clear, practical advice and partner-led support.
Frequently asked questions on charities and not-for-profit services
Testimonial
“I have been dealing with Rayner Essex for many years. They are highly professional and offer an excellent service across the board. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to any new client”.
Jane Stewart, Mark Butler Associates
Meet our charities and not for profit experts
If your charity requires support with an independent examination of charity accounts, statutory audit, accounts preparation or wider financial advice, our Chartered accountants in London and St Albans accountants below are happy to help.
Darren Hill
Contact Darren Hill
Natalie Saunders
Contact Natalie Saunders
Neil Heyes
Contact Neil Heyes
Lucy Ghawss
Contact Lucy GhawssRelated News
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