Are you struggling to find the right staff?

Accounting firms in the UK are being held back—not by lack of opportunity, but by a shortage of skilled people.

• Around 40% of firms say this shortage is having a “very significant” or “severe” impact.

• Business services and tax departments are the most affected.

• More employees are retiring than joining the profession, raising serious succession concerns.

• Nearly one-third of firms say they can’t take on new clients due to lack of staff.

  
  

Barriers & Risks

• Funding cuts to Level 7 apprenticeships for people over 22 make training new talent harder.

• The profession’s image, career paths, pay, and professional development are considered unattractive by potential recruits.

  
  

What Firms Are Doing

• Raising salaries, investing in training and tech.

• Using an outsourcing solution

• Focusing on people‑centred strategies: wellbeing, learning & development, inclusive recruitment.

  
  

What Needs to Change

• Government policy support: education reform and funding for apprenticeships.

• Firms must adapt: smarter structures, embracing technology, and being proactive about retaining and developing talent.