Accountants

As the ICAEW has produced its own comprehensive checklist for ensuring Practice Assurance Standards are in place (mandatory for ICAEW firms and optional for ACCA / other practices), we have not developed a self-assessment process for Accountants at this stage. However, we are able to perform reviews based on Annual Returns, the ICAEW Practice Assurance Checklist and/or on-site assessment for which we have a detailed Audit Checklist and reporting processes in place. In addition, a variety of on-site support services are available. The following on-site & bespoke services described attract consultancy fees, although under certain circumstances this fee may be subsidised by underwriters.

Site Audit – this provides a more in-depth investigation than is capable through the self-assessment process. Site audits involve examination of a complete cross-section of the firm’s files in detail and all practice management policies and procedures. Particular emphasis is placed on reviewing complaints and claims histories and the measures instigated to prevent recurrence of the problems encountered. To prepare for a site audit, please download the appropriate Pre-Audit Checklist from the Documentation Library.

Quality Standards Implementation Service – this is applicable to organisations of all types and sizes utilising both generic QA standards (e.g. ISO 9001) and industry specific standards such as ‘Practice Assurance’. The process includes assistance with documentation, implementation, training, and where relevant, preparation for third party assessment.

Training Services – focussing on risk management, quality assurance and management systems, our training packages can be delivered as public courses or to individual practices whereby the emphasis can be tailored to suit particular risk management issues within the firm.

Bespoke Consultancy Services – are available to clients with unique requirements for which a service can be specially developed. Such services may draw on our Risk Management, QA, IT and analytical expertise.