PublicEye
ANALYSIS
We must stay the course on Accountable
In a year with high potential for change, AAT remains doggedly focused on pushing for changes which will benefit the whole profession, says Adam Harper
In the light of the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, it seems apposite that we outline some key areas which we believe government, HMRC and the various professional bodies need to work closely on to deliver progress for the UK economy. There are four in total: tax simplification; Making Tax Digital; reforming support for SMEs; and improving professional standards in the accountancy profession.
All of these have several elements in common: they are all important and urgent; they all require engagement from government, HMRC, business and professional bodies; they are all long-term systemic challenges that must be reckoned with. And finally – and most importantly – they are all likely to be resolved by a properly regulated accountancy profession.
Staying Accountable
Taking just that final issue – driving professional standards in the accountancy profession – momentum must be maintained. With unregulated accountants making up one-third of the profession but accounting for two-thirds of complaints to HMRC, this is perhaps the most fundamental and pressing issue, because without it, none of the above problems are likely to be resolved.
It’s for that reason that we have put the question of professional regulation at the heart of our Accountable campaign. The work can be hard at times, and it requires patience, resilience and the ability to compromise. But make no mistake: it’s vital that the profession engages with these issues not only for its own benefit, but also for the general good of business, government and taxpayers.
Working with HMRC
We know that HMRC in particular values our contribution. Indeed, it expects us to work collaboratively with them to drive through appropriate solutions. The issue of unregulated accountants affects so much of the workings of the economy, from confidence in business, the effectiveness of government policy and the efficient functioning of HMRC, a body that has seen its resourcing cut to dangerous levels in recent years. Solving the conundrum will require compromise and realism on all sides. And – most important – we must not ignore the issue and hope it goes away.
We hope that spirit of collaboration persists. The past suggests it can deliver exceptional results.
Help AAT hold unregulated agents Accountable
It remains the case that one-third of accountants in the UK are unregulated, and that they account for two-thirds of complaints that are made to HMRC. AAT continues to work constructively and collaboratively with other membership bodies and HMRC in order to help drive improvements and protect both the public and the profession’s reputation. As part of these efforts, we are keen to hear from members about their experiences with clients who have previously used unregulated accountants. To do so, please click here and let AAT know about your experiences.
NAW 2024 takes the spotlight
Actor Sean Wilson joined AAT in backing National Apprenticeship Week
AAT showcases career possibilities as part of National Apprenticeship Week
The rich variety of career possibilities was the highlight of AAT’s National Apprenticeship Week drive. Apprenticeships are not only a pathway for school leavers but a device for career changers, both in accountancy and entrepreneurship.
Anthony Clarke, AAT’s business development manager, was joined on broadcast interviews by ex-Coronation Street star Sean Wilson as he spoke about his career change from acting to starting a cheese-making business and also writing recipe books. AAT’s participation in National Apprenticeship Week received extensive radio and podcast coverage, including BBC Radio Wiltshire, BBC Radio Tyneside and the Cashflow Show podcast.
Ex-Coronation Street star Sean Wilson took part in National Apprenticeship week with AAT
AAT strengthens policy team
AAT has bolstered its leadership team with the appointment of Jonathan Gorvin as executive director of strategy and compliance.
He has 15 years of experience in policy and strategy, having spent time at other professional and regulatory bodies including fellow accounting membership body the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), and most recently the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in the property sector. His experience will be vital to helping AAT work towards the three key priorities in its strategic plan: keeping the accounting profession relevant, driving up standards and building responsible business.
Salary Survey buzz continues
The release of AAT’s Salary Survey 2023 in January continues to cause a buzz, with coverage in industry titles including Accountancy Age, Accounting Today and in Accountancy Daily. The figures show that 83% of those who have completed accounting qualifications with AAT say their AAT qualification has increased their earning potential.
Level 2 students can expect to earn a median salary of £24,500 according to the latest figures, with progression and reward clear to see in the accounting career pathway, as the average salary for AAT members increases to £35,000 once they have advanced to professional membership, setting them around the UK average salary. AAT chief executive Sarah Beale said: “Figures like these are key for transparency so that our community know that they can trust AAT.”
