Icas calls for greater involvement for accountants

A new survey has prompted one of the UK's leading accountancy bodies to call for greater involvement in public service work by those in finance jobs.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (Icas) has launched the new initiative 'Clearly Ahead' in response to the findings of its 'Bean Counters or Business Leaders?' study, charting public perception of professional employed in accountancy jobs.

President of Icas Isobel Sharp commented: "By understanding public perceptions of accountants, Icas can direct better its efforts to strengthen the accounting profession's public interest role and its reputation for integrity."

Research showed that while most of the general public only 'moderately agree' that accountancy employees make a valuable contribution to society, less agree that they act in the public interest at all times.

The 'Clearly Ahead' strategy includes an ethics examination for final year trainee accountants, the production of a DVD examining debt issues aimed at schoolchildren and establishing a group dedicated to promoting corporate social responsibility.

Icas recently relocated its London office to a Cornhill location that will provide members with a free meeting room.