The occupational charity caba, which has supported chartered accountants and their families for over 140 years, has launched a new strategy to address the growing emotional and financial challenges faced by members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). Announced on 10th June 2025, the initiative responds to increasing mental health concerns and economic pressures exacerbated by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and employment uncertainty.

Last year, caba provided one-to-one support to nearly 5,000 individuals, offering financial grants, mental health services, neurodiversity guidance, and employment support. Its online resources were accessed more than 60,000 times, reflecting a rising demand for accessible guidance. The charity’s new approach aims to make its services more inclusive and relevant, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the ICAEW community.

Key elements of caba’s new strategy

• Widened support thresholds. The charity has redefined eligibility criteria to be more contemporary, potentially benefiting up to 80,000 individuals annually.
• Enhanced digital and personal services. caba is expanding both online tools and one-to-one support to reflect modern challenges, such as remote working and financial instability.
• Breaking stigma. The charity is focused on raising awareness to encourage more people to seek help without hesitation.
• Innovative financial and emotional support. New grants and tailored services will address the increasing need for mental health resources and financial aid.

Cristian Holmes, chief executive of caba, outlined the charity’s ambitions, saying, “Our recent needs analysis has highlighted that there are many more people who could be benefitting from our support. We believe that at least 7,000 individuals could benefit from our direct support each year. Beyond that, caba plays a crucial role as a trusted source of information, helping people find the right resources. We estimate up to 70,000 people could be reached through our wider guidance and tools.”

Holmes also addressed the barriers to seeking help, stating, “Evidence suggests that those who face challenges often don’t reach out for support as quickly as they might and that’s something we want to change. We’re working hard to raise awareness and break the stigma around asking for help. After all, our only purpose is to listen, help and assist.”

The charity has noted a significant rise in demand for emotional health support among chartered accountants, a trend Holmes expects to continue. “In recent years, we’ve seen a significant rise in the need for independent emotional health support for chartered accountants, and I expect this trend to continue. Through this strategy, we also aim to continue to innovate in the grants and support we offer, making sure our services remain relevant and effective for those who need them most,” he said.

caba’s unique position within the ICAEW community allows it to provide tailored support during times of need. Holmes emphasised the charity’s long-term commitment, saying, “caba is a unique resource within the ICAEW community. By building on our long history and adapting to the future, we can ensure everyone who needs us can find us. We promise to be there in the community’s times of need.”

The cost-of-living crisis, coupled with workplace pressures, has heightened anxiety and financial strain for many professionals. caba’s strategy aligns with broader efforts to address mental health and financial wellbeing, as evidenced by recent studies from the Mental Health Foundation, which report a 20% increase in anxiety-related concerns among UK professionals since 2022. By expanding its reach and modernising its services, caba aims to support more chartered accountants through these challenges.