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Caba, the occupational charity for ICAEW members, has launched a new strategy to widen access to its services amid growing demand for mental health and financial support.
Caba revised its eligibility criteria and has expanded both its digital and in-person support in response to increasing pressures on chartered accountants and their families.
In the past year, the charity provided one-to-one support to nearly 5,000 people, including financial grants, mental health and wellbeing services, neurodiversity guidance and employment support. Its online resources were accessed more than 60,000 times.
The charity’s new direction focuses on expanding both digital and personal services, tailoring support to the “realities of modern life”.
Cristian Holmes, chief executive of Caba, said: “Our recent needs analysis has highlighted that there are many more people who could be benefitting from our support. We believe that at least 7000 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.
“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.”
Holmes added: “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.
“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.”
