IFA/IPA Group benevolent fund

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Our purpose

The IFA-IPA Group Benevolent Fund provides support for current and former members of the IFA and IPA, as well as their families, who are experiencing financial, medical, or professional difficulties. Our goal is to provide a fund that strengthens our global accounting community and ensures that no member faces challenges alone. We aim to address the specific needs and circumstances of individuals, always remembering that people are at the heart of our mission. By working together, we believe we can make a more significant impact.   

Independence

The charity operates independently from the boards of both the IFA and IPA. Directors and staff from these organisations are not permitted to serve as trustees. The charity has its own board and a charity manager who oversees its operation and the grant-awarding process. All grants remain confidential, and the information is not shared with the IFA or IPA Group.  

The current Board of Trustees are: 

  • Ian Clark FFA FIPA (Chairman, UK) 
  • Anjana Hirani FFA FIPA (UK) 
  • Dave Whittaker FFA FIPA (UK) 
  • Lloyd Driscoll FIPA FFA (AU) 
  • Nola Luyten FIPA FFA (AU) 
  • Tony Rabah FIPA FFA (AU) 

Charity Manager: 

  • Paola Kennedy (UK) 

How to apply for a grant

We understand that seeking assistance can be a significant step, and we are here to help you. To evaluate your eligibility for support from our fund, please provide some information about yourself, your circumstances, and your financial situation. Each application is assessed against specific criteria and evaluated on its own merits, with complete confidentiality maintained throughout the process. Applications are reviewed by the Charity Manager and the Board of Directors, who meet regularly to discuss cases. The evaluation process considers various factors, including the applicant’s assets, liabilities, and needs. These factors may include savings, investments, loans, credit card debt, taxes, and monthly income. 

To apply for a grant, please fill out the initial form and, if applicable, provide a letter of good standing from the IFA or IPA: Initial Application Form 

How can you help?

As the IPA Group represents one of the largest global professional accountancy network for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and small- and medium-sized practices (SMPs), your donations not only support individuals facing difficult times but also assist members of your own community who may one day be in a position to help you. By choosing to donate to the fund during renewal or contributing larger amounts to Just Giving Page, you have made a significant impact on someone’s life.  

Below are snapshots of fellow community members in the UK and Australia who have received grants: 

"I am a single parent with a daughter needing long-term medical support. After reducing my work hours due to hospital visits, I struggled to make ends meet. The Benevolent Fund provided essential assistance, for which I am very grateful. Thank you for your support!" 

"After becoming homeless with my children last November, the IFA Benevolent Fund provided crucial support. I'm now in a home, starting anew, and I deeply appreciate your kindness and help. Thank you for making a difference in our lives." 

"I am deeply grateful for the compassion and professionalism shown by the IPA community. Thank you for your patience and for listening to my situation with care. I also appreciate the IPA Benevolent Fund Trustees, the IPA Melbourne office, and everyone involved in my application." 

"After being hit by a vehicle in a new country and facing serious injuries without insurance, I found myself in a desperate situation. I discovered help through the IFA magazine and applied for assistance. Thanks to this support, my life has changed - my children and I now have a home, and we're building a new life together. I'm deeply grateful for your kindness." 

Contact

For further information about the fund or how to become a trustee, please contact us at info@ifa-ipa-benevolentfund.com. 

About us

The IFA-IPA Group Benevolent Fund is a registered charity (1202088) separate from the IFA (Institute of Financial Accountants) and the IPA (Institute of Public Accountants). Established in 2023, its purpose is to help current/former members and their dependents who have fallen on hard times and have significant needs. All applications will be assessed following the Grant Making Policy agreed with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Most grants will be between £100 to £5,000, depending on circumstances, and applicants will be subject to due diligence and will be required to provide evidence of financial need.