External scrutiny, with genuine sector expertise
Charity accounts are more complex than they appear: fund accounting, restricted income, trading subsidiaries, SORP disclosures and trustee reporting all need to be understood at a technical level, not just ticked against a checklist. We carry out independent examinations in-house, and where a statutory audit is required we introduce you to trusted, audit-registered firms and stay alongside you throughout.
When is a statutory audit required?
A statutory audit is required under the Charities Act 2011 where gross annual income exceeds £1 million, or where gross assets exceed £3.26 million and income is over £250,000. For financial years ending on or after 30 September 2026 these thresholds rise, to gross income over £1.5 million, or gross assets over £5 million with income over £500,000. An audit may also be required regardless of income where specified in the charity's governing document or by a principal funder. Incorporated charities also have the option to have an audit under the Companies Act.
Independent examination
For charities below the statutory audit threshold, an independent examination is the required form of external scrutiny, and this is a service we provide directly. We conduct examinations in accordance with the Charity Commission's Directions, giving trustees a clear, constructive report. Examination is currently required where gross income falls between £25,000 and £1 million, and where income is above £250,000 the examiner must be a member of a body approved under the Charities Act. For financial years ending on or after 30 September 2026 these thresholds rise, with independent examination applying where gross income falls between £40,000 and £1.5 million, and the requirement for a qualified examiner applying where income is above £500,000. Our examinations are well planned, proportionate and unobtrusive, and we work with your team rather than around them.
If your charity needs a statutory audit
We are not currently registered to carry out statutory audits ourselves. Where your charity requires one — because of its size, its governing document or a funder's conditions — we will tell you plainly and introduce you to trusted, audit-registered firms we know and rate. We can work with you throughout so you still get the benefit of our sector knowledge, reviewing your records, preparing your accounts, and liaising with the auditors to make the process as smooth as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do you carry out statutory audits?
We are not currently registered to carry out statutory audits ourselves. Where one is required we will tell you plainly and introduce you to trusted, audit-registered firms, staying alongside you throughout the process.
What is the difference between an audit and an independent examination?
An independent examination is a lighter form of external scrutiny available below the audit threshold. An audit is a fuller, regulated opinion required for larger charities, or where the governing document or a funder demands it.
Can a funder require an audit even if we are below the threshold?
Yes. A funder or your governing document can require a full audit regardless of income, and we will help you understand and meet those requirements.
Related services
Year-end accounts
Statutory accounts prepared start to finish, whether SORP accruals or receipts and payments.
Fractional CFO support
Senior financial leadership on a flexible basis, without the cost of a full-time hire.
Ad hoc & project support
One-off financial expertise when you need it, from funding bids to governance reviews.
Tell us about your organisation
We'll arrange a free, no-obligation consultation to understand where your finances are and how we can help you get where you want to be.