Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Ethical Accounting Solutions
Based in Shoreham-by-Sea, The Helpful Bookkeeper has been delivering ethical, environmentally conscious accounting solutions since 2013. Our founder, Josie Duggan, brings 15 years of business management experience to provide tailored bookkeeping, payroll, and tax services that prioritise transparency and sustainability. We specialise in cloud-based accounting systems like Xero, offering fixed-fee packages for small businesses, charities, and sole traders across Sussex and beyond.Our approach combines technical expertise with a commitment to carbon neutrality, ensuring clients receive accurate, compliant financial management while reducing environmental impact. With formal qualifications from the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and a practice license number 14667, we maintain rigorous professional standards while delivering personalised support that empowers businesses to grow sustainably.
Services
Bookkeeping
Payroll Services
VAT Returns
Self-Assessment Tax Returns
Cloud Accounting
Credit Control
Cash Flow Management
Management Reports
Bank Reconciliation
Accounting Software Advice
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We offer fixed monthly fees with no hidden charges
- Our practice operates as a certified carbon-neutral business
- We are licensed members of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers
- We specialise in cloud accounting software integration
- We provide tailored financial reports for business decision-making
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Certified Bookkeepers
Services
Bookkeeping
We transform raw financial data into actionable insights through comprehensive bookkeeping services. Our approach focuses on cash flow management, bank reconciliation, and tailored KPI reporting for businesses of all sizes. By maintaining accurate, up-to-date records, we help clients understand their financial position and make informed business decisions while ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
Payroll Services
Our payroll services handle all aspects of employee payments and tax compliance. From calculating wages and deductions to submitting HMRC reports, we ensure timely and accurate processing. We specialise in CIS scheme compliance for construction industry clients and provide year-end reports including P60s and P11Ds, allowing business owners to focus on core operations without payroll stress.
VAT Returns
We manage complete VAT return preparation and submission processes for businesses of all sizes. Our services include calculating liabilities, verifying records, and ensuring timely submissions to HMRC. For clients with accountants, we provide fully prepared returns to reduce professional fees while maintaining compliance with changing VAT regulations and deadlines.
Self-Assessment Tax Returns
We prepare and submit self-assessment tax returns for sole traders and individuals with complex tax situations. Our service covers income reporting, allowable expense claims, and compliance with HMRC requirements. We specialise in helping first-time filers and those with multiple income streams meet deadlines and avoid penalties while optimising tax efficiency.
Cloud Accounting
Our cloud accounting solutions implement modern software systems like Xero to streamline financial management. We provide software selection advice, system setup, and training to enable real-time financial tracking. This paperless approach reduces administrative burdens while improving accuracy and accessibility for business owners who want to manage their finances more efficiently.
People
Josie Duggan
Owner
Josie Duggan established The Helpful Bookkeeper in 2013 after a career in London media and hospitality management. With a BSc in Psychology and 15 years of business experience, she specialises in transforming financial data into actionable insights. Josie holds a practice license from the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (number 14667) and is committed to ethical, environmentally responsible accounting practices.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll, self-assessment tax returns, and financial reporting services tailored to small businesses. Our cloud-based solutions include software advice and implementation to streamline financial management processes.
Do you work with charities and non-profit organisations?
Yes, we offer discounted services for charities including financial reporting under Charity SORP guidelines. We also make monthly donations to charities we work with and can sometimes offer pro bono services for organisations with limited budgets.
What areas do you serve?
Based in Shoreham-by-Sea, we serve local businesses in Brighton, Hove, Worthing, and the wider Sussex area. Our cloud accounting systems allow us to work remotely with clients throughout the UK and beyond.
How are your bookkeeping fees structured?
We offer three pricing tiers starting from £20/month for basic bookkeeping, £50/month for standard packages, and £80/month for advanced services. Fees are fixed monthly charges with no hidden costs or surprise bills.
Are you qualified accountants?
We are fully licensed members of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (practice number 14667). Our qualifications include professional bookkeeping and payroll certifications, with ongoing training to maintain compliance with current regulations.
How do you handle payroll for construction industry businesses?
We specialise in CIS scheme compliance for construction businesses, including subcontractor verification, payment calculations, and monthly HMRC returns. Our services cover all aspects of payroll administration with fees starting at £1.50 per payslip.
