Charity News: Independent examination

Charity News: Independent examination

The COVID-19 pandemic will have a significant impact on the independent examination of charity accounts, both on the nature of the work that will need to be performed and the practical difficulties involved. To address these issues the charity regulators have published supplementary guidance for independent examiners for the work they perform during times of national emergency.

The main areas this guidance covers are:

  • the impact of the pandemic on obtaining access to the charity’s records, particularly when social distancing measures are in place
  • access to those in management and control of the charity
  • additional risk factors the examiner will need to consider
  • implications for the examiner’s report
  • sign off and filing of accounts.

Examiners will familiarise themselves with this supplementary guidance, but will also be beneficial for small charities subject to independent examination to be aware of the issues it covers. Charities can arrange to have the necessary documentation ready to ensure that the examination process goes as smoothly as possible.

Guidance: https://bit.ly/36caK8i

Our full Charity Newsletter can be found here.

For more information on our charity services please visit our website or contact Frank Harling on 01932 830664 or charities@wardwilliams.co.uk

About the author

Colin is a Director at Ward Williams who has more than 25 years of practical experience and qualified with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in 2001.

He has a diverse portfolio ranging from small owner managed businesses to larger companies requiring audit together with a number of specialist clients such as charities, pension schemes, acadamies and solicitors. Colin provides a range of accounting, tax and audit services to these clients.

enquiries@wardwilliams.co.uk

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