External Audit Services

Audits have a reputation for being stressful, intrusive, or a sign that something’s gone wrong. In reality? A statutory audit is simply a chance to get a clear, independent view of your business - and we make the whole process feel calm, structured and genuinely useful.

At Hancock & Hastings, we see an audit as an opportunity. More clarity. More confidence. More insight into how your business really works. And we make it as smooth and straightforward as possible.

What is a statutory audit?

Lots of organisations need — or choose — an audit for different reasons. We work with:

• SMEs and owner-managed businesses

• UK subsidiaries of overseas parent companies

• Charities and not-for-profits

• Law firms requiring SRA (Solicitors Accounts Rules) audits

• Businesses seeking voluntary audits

• ATOL accountants’ reports for travel businesses

• British Film Institute (BFI) audit reports for film production and cultural projects

If you’re not sure whether you need one, just ask, we’re happy to give free advice.

What does the audit process involve?

We keep it structured and simple.

1. Understanding your business

We start by visiting your premises before year-end to walk through your systems and controls. This helps us tailor the audit to how your business actually operates - not how a textbook says it should.

2. Planning the audit

Once we’ve understood your processes, we build a clear audit plan.

3. Fieldwork (the bit people worry about unnecessarily)

Our audit is primarily balance-sheet focused, but we also review your profit and loss using sampling, analytical procedures, and intelligent testing. We’re thorough - but we’re friendly, respectful and efficient.

4. Review and sign-off

After fieldwork, your audit is reviewed by Amy (your senior statutory auditor) and by an independent quality control reviewer. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is overlooked.

We then hold an audit clearance meeting to walk you through:

the audit findings
the management letter
any recommendations
any high-level decisions

Once everything is agreed, we sign the accounts together and file them. Clear. Collaborative. No surprises.

Who will you work with?

You get continuity - not a new team every year.

Amy Hancock is your senior statutory auditor and main point of contact throughout the entire process.

Why choose us for your audit?

Because we don’t treat audits like a box-ticking exercise. We treat them like an opportunity to help you understand your business better. We communicate clearly. We resolve issues collaboratively. We keep the process organised and predictable. And we make sure you finish the audit with more clarity than you started with.

Ready for an audit that adds value instead of adding stress?

Let’s talk. Contact us to discuss how we can turn your statutory audit into an opportunity for growth.