Les lands a grand result for Bournemouth church

Les lands a grand result for Bournemouth church

No wonder Les Howard (right) and his team are smiling – they’ve won a battle for Immanuel Church, Bournemouth that has saved the fellowship a staggering £100,000 in unnecessary VAT.

‘We are pleased to say we have saved and protected many millions of pounds over the years, including Immanuel where we successfully argued a case at the tax tribunal,’ said regular CRE exhibitor Les. ‘Whilst we try to minimise VAT costs of any project, we do not become involved in dubious tax avoidance schemes. We want our church clients to have confidence in the integrity of their advisers, as well as the quality of the advice itself.’

The vatadvice.org team has recently grown with Les now joined by Rebecca and Nick (pictured). The plan is to develop a larger team, supporting even more churches and charities through the VAT maze. 

‘We have leased an office,’ said Les, ‘although, with lockdown, we are not often there!’

Much of the company’s work is advising on property development.

‘Always to speak with us at an early stage,’ said Les. ‘We can provide written guidance for your leadership team or trustees. This gives certainty as the church will invariably need to raise funds. No church leader wants to ask a congregation for further funds to pay an unexpected VAT bill.

‘Many churches are diversifying their activities. Coffee shops, food banks, debt advice, counselling, mental health and furniture stores are increasingly found on church premises.  These can have VAT implications, so ask at an early stage.’

Click here for more information.

• Vatadvice.org are exhibiting at CRE National 2021 (Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey Oct 12-14)

Our next exhibitions

CRE South West 2021 – 17-18 March 2021
Westpoint, Exeter

CRE National 2021 – 12-14 October 2021
Sandown Park, Surrey