It has been a long and testing time for the charity and not for profit (NFP) sector during these economically-challenging years – time when heavy reliance on public donations and external support has become a vital asset.

However, it is exactly this issue that tops a survey undertaken by leadingindependent Cambridge Chartered Accountants Peters Elworthy & Moore (PEM). Almost 60% of respondents stated that a ‘decrease in donations’ is a very key concern facing the sector over the next 12 to 18 months.

This was followed by ‘legislative change and red tape’, as 33% of those polled by PEM claimed these challenges as a concern for the future, with 25% stating ‘difficulty in finding trustees with relevant skills’ in the sector.

Recognised across the region for its expertise and experience in the charity and not for profit sector, PEM acts as accountants, auditors and advisers. Judith Coplowe, Director of Charities and NFP, says: “Unsurprisingly the survey shows that charities cannot be complacent. They need to work hard to generate new income streams and stay engaged with their donors. And while there have been a number of government initiatives to reduce the legislative burden for charities, most find it hard to keep up with the pace of change. This is why sound, proactive advice and guidance from PEM is so important to our charity and not for profit clients.”

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Notes to Editors

Peters Elworthy & Moore (PEM) is one of the leading independent firms of accountants, tax and business advisers in the East Anglia region, with 13 Partners and 140 staff www.pem.co.uk

PEM is within the top 60 in the UK, providing financial strategies for success

PEM has a large and varied client base including: Owner Managed Businesses, Charities and Not-for-Profit sector, Technology, Property, Agriculture including Farming and Bloodstock as well as many Professional Firms, Partnerships and Private Clients in the region.

Judith Coplowe Head of Charities and NFP is available for interview.