This March, occupational charity caba marks 140 years of supporting the accountancy profession, while highlighting the growing pressures many accountants continue to face today.
Founded in 1886 after a group of ICAEW council members personally stepped in to gift £50 to a junior colleague suffering from a terminal illness, the Chartered Accountants’ Benevolent Association has been there for generations of accountants and their families ever since.
In the past 20 years alone, it has spent more than £37 million supporting those in need, including financial grants, counselling, career coaching and practical advice. During this time, more than 40,000 enquiries have been made by people seeking help, with nearly 10,000 receiving direct financial assistance and more than 8,000 accessing counselling.
The milestone comes as recent research from caba highlights the pressures facing today’s accountancy professionals. 67% of accountants say they have suffered from stress in their career, and 41% say burnout has become a normalised part of the profession1. With financial year end approaching – traditionally one of the most demanding periods for accountants – the charity says its work remains as important as ever.
Dr Cristian Holmes, Chief Executive at caba, says: “For 140 years, caba has been here for every member of the ICAEW community when they need support most. While the profession and its landscape has evolved significantly over that time, the pressures people face – whether they are financial, personal or professional – remain.
“caba exists to make sure no one has to shoulder these burdens alone. At a time when the profession is navigating some of its biggest changes and challenges, we’re proud to continue providing practical, confidential support to those who need it.”
caba has a long and rich history, and a close association with ICAEW. Among those shaping caba’s early years were some of the most recognisable names in accountancy, including the chairman of the inaugural meeting, William Welch Deloitte.
Shauna Robinson (FCA), Deloitte partner and ICAEW Council member, said: “Deloitte has a long history of being connected to caba’s story. Our own founder, William Welch Deloitte, played a key role in the charity’s earliest days and served as caba’s president until just before his death in 1898,
reflecting the profession’s long tradition of supporting its community. As the charity marks 140 years of service, we continue to recognise the importance of providing wellbeing and practical support for ICAEW members and their families.”
Derek Blair, Patron of caba and President of the ICAEW, said: “I am proud to be associated with a charity that recognises the realities faced by the accountancy profession and responds with care, respect and practical help. caba’s focus on hardship and poor health reflects the importance of offering meaningful support when it matters the most. Too often, caba has been described as a ‘best kept secret’. It should not be. Ensuring that people know help is available and feel able to access it without stigma or shame, is essential if caba is to fulfil its purpose”
Support from caba is free and given in the strictest confidence. Call 01788 556366, email [email protected] or visit https://www.caba.org.uk/with-you.html to find out more about how caba could support you.