Business recovery expert Neville Kahn has already demonstrated the importance of his expertise by helping build a model that should restore a number of structured investment vehicles to health.

This week’s Accountancy Age also emphasises how auditors are working with boards to ensure they understand the issues around being a going concern and the judgement required to reach valuations that have integrity.

In another piece we emphasise the role of accountants, described as ‘one of the most trusted sources of advice for small business’, in aiding SMEs to survive.

Accountants will play a critical role in businesses being able to survive the downturn and recession if it follows. They have the key skills and foresight to help with financial management issues that could mean the difference between survival and demise for Britain’s businesses.

Whether it’s making transparent the exact position of a business, facing tough decisions over cost savings or working out cash flows and working capital, accountants will be in the thick of it as the economy worsens.

Accountants will add value by making sure their clients face these issues and avoid prevarication. There’s no point in having trusted advisers if you don’t use them. The skills and the knowledge base is there and available. But it needs to be used and that requires a will.

The challenge accountants face, in spite of the downturn, is making sure their advice is sought. There’s no point in being a trusted adviser unless you are willing to take the lead.

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