Since its launch in July 2024, the WYCAS Abacus Project has made significant progress in connecting skilled individuals with local charities in need of financial management support. With six successful matches and four more participants in training, the project continues to grow and create impact.

Supporting Charities and Participants

Participants, many with finance backgrounds but little experience in charity finance, receive tailored training and hands-on support from our project lead, Claire Welling. They undertake four-month placements assisting charities with essential financial tasks, including:

• Bank reconciliations and record-keeping.
• Preparing year-end adjustments and financial reports.
• Clearing transaction backlogs and improving accuracy.

One participant shared:

“I applied for the Abacus project as I was seeking a way to embed the learning from my AAT studies. The initial training allowed me to understand the context of charity reporting and also gain a basic understanding of two of the recording systems used.

My placement means that I am working closely with a charity and using their system to keep up-to-date and relieve the pressure on the front-line staff.

I am learning with every volunteering session and look forward to developing this for the duration of my placement.”

Meanwhile, charities benefit from improved financial management:

“The Abacus placement has provided a focus on the finances, which I did not have the capacity to manage alone.

Additionally, we have access to expert support through Claire, which has been useful. As a host organisation, I am also growing in financial confidence through the Abacus project.

We have addressed the backlog and are now building confidence in our reports. It is a joy to host a placement who enjoys bank reconciliations!”

Next Steps

We are actively seeking more host charities and participants:

• Charities: If you need structured financial support, the Abacus Project can help.
• Participants: If you have a finance background and want practical experience, this is an opportunity to develop your skills.

📩 Contact Sarah McLellan at sarah.mclellan@wycas.org.uk
🌐 Learn more at www.wycas.org.uk/abacus

WYCAS Community Accounting West Yorkshire

Visit Website