HMRC has changed how it scrutinises charities. It now uses AI-supported analytics to cross-reference tax filings, public records, social media and more than 30 external databases. Even minor inconsistencies can trigger a review. For charity trustees and finance leads, this is not a distant risk. It is a live one.
In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Rob Brown talks with Siobhan Holmes, Partner specialising in charities and not-for-profit organisations at Azets, about the rise of Strategic Risk Reviews and what they mean for the sector. Siobhan has more than 25 years of experience advising charities on compliance, governance and tax and has a clear view of what HMRC is looking for and why the pace of activity has increased.
Siobhan and Rob cover what a Strategic Risk Review actually is, why HMRC introduced them, what triggers one and what the consequences can be once a review is underway. The message for any trustee or finance lead in the charity sector is direct: the time to get your records in order is before the letter arrives, not after. If you are responsible for a charity's financial governance, this conversation is essential.
Connect with Siobhan Holmes on LinkedIn.
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Fresh Perspectives is the business podcast from Azets where advisers, experts and leaders share fresh thinking to help you move forward with confidence.
Each episode explores real-world challenges and opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs, from finance and growth to leadership and technology.
Formerly Bang The Drum, the show continues Azets’ commitment to sharing practical advice, new ideas and inspiring stories from across the business community.
This podcast has featured at #1 in the Apple Podcast charts for Management podcasts and #19 in the Apple Podcasts charts for Business podcasts.
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