BusinessHealth

Accountants put stamp on air ambulance funds

STAFF and clients of Hampshire accountancy firm HWB have put the stamp on fundraising to help keep the county’s air ambulance flying.

They have been collecting franked postage stamps as part of an initiative to support the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

It costs more than £15,000 a day to keep the vital lifesaving charity fully operational, and it relies on donations,.

HWB has been saving stamps from mail received at its Chandler’s Ford offices over the past year, with staff and clients adding to the collection.

Director Michaela Johns delivered bags of used stamps to the air ambulance HQ in Nursling, Southampton.

She said: “This is such a worthwhile charity and it is reassuring to know that it is always there for us in times of emergency.

“It is no hardship to collect used postage stamps and, although just a minor help, we would encourage other businesses in the county to follow suit.

“A carrier bag of used stamps can be worth approximately £15 for the charity, with rare stamps and albums possible generating even more.”

The air ambulance, which is based at Thruxton Airfield, near Andover operates 365 days a year and can reach anywhere in Hampshire within 15 minutes and the Island in 20 minutes.

Generosity

Keith Wilson, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance’s Director of Income and Engagement, said: “The generosity of communities and businesses is what keeps us going.

“We are extremely grateful for any help that we receive so we can continue to deliver an advanced critical care team to sick and injured people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight when they need it most.”

HWB works closely with many charities and not-for-profit organisations, specialising in supporting finance teams through the legal requirements that come with charitable status.

Michaela added: “Managing the finances of a charity requires a pragmatic approach with a clear understanding of the compliance issues of the sector.

“With so many such organisations being administered by volunteers, it is imperative that professional advice should be available as a guide to best practice, to spot potential pitfalls and offer practical advice.”

Chartered accountants HWB, headquartered at Chandler’s Ford, near Southampton, provides business and tax advice.

Find out more: https://www.hwb-accountants.com/specialist/charities/

PICTURED: HWB Accountants Director Michaela Johns with the stamps colleagues and clients have been collecting to help keep the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance flying