Independent examinations

An independent examination gives charities the reassurance that financial statements are accurate, transparent, and compliant. Better yet, they help you avoid a full statutory audit.

At Framework, we can provide a clear, independent review of your charity’s accounts, making sure everything is presented correctly and that it aligns with the requirements of the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). We’re also here to highlight any areas of concern, explain what they mean, and offer practical steps to address them in plain English.

What is an independent examination?

An independent examination is an external review of a charity’s accounts, carried out by a qualified and impartial accounting professional. The goal is to verify that financial statements are consistent with the charity’s underlying records, and that they comply with the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006.

Unlike an audit, an independent examination doesn’t convey an opinion on whether the accounts show a ‘true and fair view’. Instead, it focuses purely on making sure the provided figures are accurate, properly supported, and meet regulatory standards.

In Scotland, an independent examination is required if:

  • A charity’s annual gross income is £500,000 or less, or

  • Its gross assets are below £3.26 million, and its income is below £250,000.

Above these thresholds, a full audit is usually required under charity law.

Why independent examination matters?

For charities, financial transparency is a matter of trust just as much as it is a legal responsibility. This is because donors, funders, and the wider public need to know that money within a charity is being managed responsibly and spent in line with its purpose and objectives.

An independent examination helps your organisation by:

  • Guaranteeing compliance with OSCR and charity accounting regulations

  • Identifying errors or inconsistencies in financial records before they cause problems

  • Highlighting opportunities to strengthen financial controls and processes

  • Providing trustees with clear, actionable recommendations

  • Offering reassurance to funders and beneficiaries that your finances are sound.

All in all, it’s an important part of good governance and helps small to medium charities demonstrate accountability to everyone involved.

How independent examination supports better governance

Independent examination isn’t a negative thing, and as well as showing you where your charity is going wrong, it helps you find areas for improvement.

For example, our reports have previously revealed areas where internal controls could be tightened, documentation improved, or processes simplified within charitable organisations. Over time, addressing these concerns has strengthened how charities can operate and helped them develop long-term sustainability.

An independent examination can also give trustees confidence that your organisation is meeting their duties under charity law. By having an objective external review, boards can show they’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure financial accuracy and compliance, so it keeps everyone happy.

How we can help

At Framework, we understand the pressures charities face, from limited resources to the need for complete transparency. As such, our independent examination service is designed to make compliance straightforward and constructive.

As part of this service, we will:

  • Review your charity’s accounting records and financial statements

  • Identify any inconsistencies or concerns, and explain what they mean

  • Provide a clear report in line with OSCR requirements

  • Recommend practical ways to strengthen financial management

  • Liaise with trustees, senior leader teams, and finance staff to ensure everyone understands the findings.

Our approach is collaborative rather than critical, and our primary focus is on adding value to your organisation. All in all, we’re passionate about keeping a charity’s finances not only compliant but positioned for long-term success.

Why choose Framework

We’ve built long-standing relationships with charities and membership organisations across Scotland. Because our experience is so vast, we understand the specific accounting frameworks, reporting standards, and governance expectations these organisations must meet.

We’re also all about seeing beyond the numbers and getting to the root of systems you have in place. This allows us to connect your independent examination to a wide variety of related services such as bookkeeping, management reporting, and payroll, so your entire finance function can work as smoothly and transparently as possible.

With our team of accountancy experts on your side, you’ll have the clarity and confidence to fulfil your responsibilities and focus on your charity’s purpose for the long term.

Find confidence in your charity’s accounts

If your charity needs an independent examination, Framework can help you meet all OSCR requirements with clarity, accuracy, and professionalism.

So, get in touch with our friendly team of experts today to discuss your charity’s needs and make sure your accounts are ready for submission.

Get in touch to arrange your independent examination or find out more about the process.

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