The project, led by Claire Welling at WYCAS (West Yorkshire Community Accounting Service), bridges a vital gap. Many charities struggle with the capacity to manage their finances effectively, or even know how to do this.
From outdated records to a lack of basic tools like a cashbook, the challenges are real and persistent. The Abacus Project responds to this by pairing organisations in the VCSE sector with trained volunteer placements that provide free hands-on financial support.
The project provides invaluable experience in charity finance to individuals looking to boost their careers. All of the volunteers are individuals facing barriers to employment, many are studying for their AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification, while others like Saisha, a single mother and trained accountant returning to work after a prolonged career break, see the project as a gateway back into employment.
“It’s a long journey. It’s not easy,” says Saisha. “But I’ve always wanted to be an accountant. Claire is very supportive and kind, and WYCAS are always here if I’m struggling with anything. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”
Pairing Finance Volunteers with Charities to Build Stronger Financial Futures
Each participant has three introductory sessions with WYCAS before starting their placement. The first introduces key principles when it comes to charity finance and the remaining sessions focus on practical skills, including using the WYCAS cashbook and QuickBooks Online.
A skills assessment ensures that volunteers are appropriately matched, not only by location but also by ability and alignment with the host organisation’s values where possible.
Claire, who leads the project, explains the matchmaking process:
“We identify charities, sometimes those we’ve worked with while preparing their accounts. Many are small community groups with limited resources, often relying on just one person to manage the books. We assess what support they need and pair them with a volunteer who’s ready to make an impact.”
A Win-Win for Charities and Volunteers
One of the first placements proved to be successful. A small community organisation struggling with a significant backlog in their accounts was matched with a volunteer who not only brought their records up to date but has since continued to offer regular support to the charity beyond the placement.
“They can now make decisions based on reliable information,” says Claire. “And for the volunteer, it’s been an opportunity to gain real-world experience that could be truly life-changing.”
Gary Gordon, WYCAS Trustee, described the Abacus Project as a uniquely valuable initiative where “everyone benefits.” He explained that VCSE organisations receive the vital financial support they need, while volunteer participants gain hands-on experience and practical skills to strengthen their CVs and support their journey into employment in the UK.
The project has already completed several placements with overwhelmingly positive results.
Supporting Community-Led Organisations
One of the most recent organisations to benefit is Light Up Black and African Heritage Calderdale (LightUpBahc), a community-led group supporting people of African descent and Black and Minority Ethnic communities across Calderdale and Leeds.
“For me, with the little time I’ve spent with WYCAS, my job has already been made a lot easier,” says Bola, Chair of LightUpBahc. “Sitting down and looking at our finances and keeping it up to date helps us so much as an organisation. It’s a big stress removed. It’s great they’re doing this for the community.”
With over 100 registered members, LightUpBahc offers advice, cultural events, and vital support to people facing social exclusion, unemployment, or financial hardship. Like many charities, their focus is on service delivery, leaving little time for financial admin.
“I can’t do everything,” says Bola.
Building Long-Term Resilience in the Sector
The Abacus Project not only eases the burden on small charities but also helps to build their long-term resilience. It’s a win-win initiative, enhancing financial stability across the sector while also equipping individuals with valuable skills and confidence.
As Claire puts it, “Ignorance is not bliss when you’re a trustee or manager.” And thanks to the Abacus Project, more charities and individuals are beginning to understand the real value of informed financial decision-making.
Despite the success of the placements, the Abacus project’s funding is under threat from the end of June 2025, risking our ability to extend the project.
If you would like to fund the project or discuss this, please contact Claire at cwelling@wycas.org.uk
For community groups and organisations based in West Yorkshire:
If you have any accounts questions or issues you would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact WYCAS via the following link: https://www.wycas.org.uk/contact-us/
For current training and events: https://www.wycas.org.uk/current-training-and-events/
