Community Benefit Societies
Community Benefit Societies (CBSs) and cooperatives play a vital role in delivering local, member-led impact — whether through housing, energy, food, culture, or finance. But the regulatory and governance responsibilities of societies registered under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 can be complex and evolving.
At Anchor Advisory, I support CBSs and co-ops with clear, practical advice to help you meet your obligations, strengthen your governance, and manage your finances sustainably.
How I Can Help
Regulatory and governance support
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Helping you meet the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) requirements as your primary registrar
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Navigating the requirements of the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014
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Mapping your annual governance cycle, including AGMs, board reporting, and filing deadlines
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Clarifying when and how additional Charity Commission requirements may apply (for charitable societies)
Accounts and annual return
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Preparing compliant annual accounts and returns for submission to the FCA
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Supporting internal reporting to boards, members and stakeholders
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Advice on reserves, capital strategies and trading income for societies with hybrid models
Audit and scrutiny
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Helping you understand whether your society is required to have an audit
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Completing a lay audit for small societies — equivalent to an independent examination for charities
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Identifying a suitable audit provider if needed and supporting you through the audit process
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Strengthening your society’s financial foundation
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Developing or reviewing financial policies and internal controls
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Supporting boards and treasurers with training or tailored technical guidance
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Financial forecasting and scenario planning for long-term sustainability
Why Work With Me?
I’ve worked with a range of mutuals and community benefit societies and understand the intersection of regulation, governance, and social mission that makes this sector distinctive.
Whether you're navigating your first FCA return or planning for long-term community ownership, I bring technical rigour and practical, proportionate advice.
