Westcotts Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers

25/02/2026

The government has confirmed further changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR).

From April 2026, the 100% relief cap is now proposed to increase to £2.5 million per taxpayer — meaning married couples and civil partners could pass on up to £5 million of qualifying assets without Inheritance Tax.

For some farmers, landowners and business owners, this will significantly reduce exposure. For others, careful planning is still essential.

Read our full update and what it could mean for you 👉 https://ow.ly/GOcG50YkYji

Updated Inheritance Tax proposals raise APR and BPR thresholds to £2.5m from April 2026. What does this mean for farmers, landowners and business owners?

24/02/2026

If you’re a business owner, your will is part of your wider business planning.

It can help ensure your business continues in line with your wishes, protect the value you’ve built and reduce stress for your family. With changes to Business Property Relief on the horizon, it’s worth taking the time to review your plans.

Our latest blog explores what you need to consider.
👉 https://ow.ly/NhAv50YkclP

If you’re a business owner, a will is essential for protecting your company, securing tax reliefs and safeguarding your family’s future.

23/02/2026

We’re excited to share that we’ll be exhibiting at Business Fest South West 2026!

Join us on 1st April at Westpoint Arena, Exeter for one of the region’s leading business exhibitions. It’s a great opportunity to connect with local businesses and share ideas about the challenges and opportunities ahead.

If you’re planning to attend, come and say hello, we’d love to see you there.

You can register for free tickets here 👉 https://bizfestsw.co.uk/

19/02/2026

Charities continue to show remarkable resilience but the pressures are real.

Our latest Charity Sector Survey highlights funding challenges, trustee recruitment concerns and growing digital risk across the South West.

At the same time, collaboration and community partnerships are strengthening.

Read the full article here 👉

Results from our Charity Sector Survey reveal financial pressures, governance challenges and digital risks shaping charities across the South West.

19/02/2026

We’re looking for an experienced Accounts Manager to join our Okehampton office.

You’ll lead and support a talented team, manage a varied client portfolio, and play a key role in delivering clear, trusted advice to growing businesses.

If you’re AAT and ACA / ACCA qualified (or qualified by experience) and ready for your next step, we’d love to hear from you.
Learn more and apply 👉 https://ow.ly/KbVC50XKLsp

18/02/2026

We’re looking for an Accounts Technician to join our team in Exeter.

You’ll enjoy varied, meaningful work, a supportive team environment, and clear opportunities to grow your career at your own pace.

Apply now 👉 https://ow.ly/iJjM50XKLuX

13/02/2026

From apprentice to Partner.

Matt Keane joined the firm in 2012 in an entry-level role, choosing an apprenticeship over university. Through on-the-job learning alongside his AAT and ACCA qualifications, Matt built his career step by step and in 2025, he was promoted to Partner.

“Westcotts has always followed through on its commitment to support my career development. It’s a company that genuinely puts people first.”

A great reminder during National Apprenticeship Week that there’s more than one route to a successful career and we’re here to support every step.

13/02/2026

Congratulations to Kay Murray on her promotion to Director at our Burnham-on-Sea office!

Kay works with clients across Somerset, supporting individuals, sole traders and owner-managed businesses. With over 25 years’ experience – and personal experience of running a family business – she understands the pressures clients face and the importance of practical, clear advice.

We’re proud to see her step into this new role.

Find out more 👉

Westcotts promotes Kay Murray to Director at its Burnham-on-Sea office, supporting clients across Somerset with over 25 years’ experience.

12/02/2026

Fancy a fun night out for a great cause?

Join us for our Charity Quiz Night in support of Hospiscare at Quayside Distillery, Exeter.

📅 Thursday 19 March
⏰ 6pm
Teams of 4 - £20pp (includes food & a drink)

Bring your friends, test your knowledge and help support a local cause 💚

Book now 👉 https://ow.ly/rANT50Y9SBj

11/02/2026

From apprentice to Director.

Ben Absalom joined as an apprentice in 2014 and now works as a Director in our Plymouth office, supporting businesses with digital accounting solutions and tailored advice to help them succeed on their terms.

Alongside his client work, Ben also plays an important role in supporting the development and training of the Plymouth team.

National Apprenticeship Week is a great reminder that apprenticeships can lead to long-term, fulfilling careers and we’re here to support that journey every step of the way.

09/02/2026

It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and we’re celebrating the role apprenticeships play in helping people learn, grow and build long-term careers at Westcotts.

Apprenticeships have long been part of how we support training and development across the firm, and we’re pleased to have a 4.4 out of 5 apprentice review score on Higherin, based on feedback from those who’ve trained and developed with us.

Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing a few real progression stories from across Westcotts.