Access Accountancy (information for NHS finance departments)
Access Accountancy was founded by and for the accountancy profession, to realise a more representative workforce by socio-economic background. The mission is to ensure that everyone has an equal chance of accessing the accountancy profession based on merit, not background.
The programme was established in 2014 with the ambition to promote diversity across all levels of the sector in the face of overwhelming evidence showing that applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds are less likely to be hired.
Organisations that sign up to Access Accountancy commit to measurable outcomes, which aim to deliver real change and welcome talented young people from all backgrounds, supporting social mobility.
If you are an NHS finance department in England and would like to take part in Access Accountancy Work Experience, please contact one.finance@nhs.net
Who is eligible for Access Accountancy?
Work experience as part of Access Accountancy is for students that:
- Attend a state school or college and;
- Are in year 10, 11, 12 or 13 (the exact year required will depend on the placement) and;
- The occupation of their main household earner when you were aged 14 is categorised as a lower socio-economic background or;
- Are/have been eligible for free school meals or;
- Attend a school that is above the regional average in terms of the number of students eligible for free school meals or;
- Would be the first member of their immediate family to attend university.
Access Accountancy does not set academic entry requirements, it is up to individual organisations if they wish to do this, making sure these are not a barrier to potential talent.
Current Access Accountancy Work Experience Opportunities:
29 June – 3 July 2026 – NHS Finance Work Experience – Cambridge
NHS England, Cambridge University Hospitals and Royal Papworth Hospital are jointly offering a work experience week for year 12 students as part of the Access Accountancy programme. Applications are open until 22 May using the linked application form here. Alternatively you can contact jane.payling@eastamb.nhs.uk for a copy of the application form. Please note due to high volumes of applications we will NOT be able to respond to applications from students living or studying in the local area.
20-24 July 2026 – NHS Finance Work Experience – Norwich
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals are offering a work experience week for year 12 students as part of the Access Accountancy programme. Applications are now open – apply by 8 May 2026. Apply here: NNUH Access Accountancy Programme 2026 – Fill in form
For more current opportunities, visit – Current opportunities | Access Accountancy
