Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Chartered Accountants in Sheffield
Allen West & Foster has been serving the business communities of Sheffield, Chesterfield, and the Peak District since 1968. Our firm was formed through the 2017 merger of two respected local practices, Stephen Allen & Co. and West and Foster, combining decades of expertise. We specialise in audit and accounts preparation, personal and corporate taxation, VAT, payroll, and bookkeeping services. Our client base ranges from sole traders to large corporate groups across diverse sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services. As registered auditors regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), we maintain rigorous professional standards.We prioritise personalised service, offering free initial consultations to understand clients' unique needs. Our team's extensive experience spans sectors such as finance, engineering, and medical services, ensuring tailored solutions. We actively support local communities, demonstrated through initiatives like our Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning. Our proactive approach extends to compliance matters, including assisting clients with the new Companies House director verification requirements. With offices in Sheffield, Chesterfield, and Bakewell, we combine regional expertise with national regulatory compliance.
Services
Accountancy
Audit
Bookkeeping
Tax Planning
Payroll Services
Corporate Compliance
VAT Advisory
Business Advisory
Financial Strategy
Director Verification
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Established in 1968 with combined expertise from two respected local practices
- Personalised service tailored to individual business requirements
- Sector-specific experience in manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services
- Free initial consultation with no obligation
- Proactive compliance support including Companies House verification assistance
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
What people say
Exceptional service
Knowledgeable staff
Effective compliance support
Personalised approach
Proactive advice
Services
Accountancy Services
We provide comprehensive accounting solutions including monthly, quarterly, and annual accounts preparation. Our services cover statutory filings with Companies House and HMRC for businesses of all sizes. We ensure compliance with current regulations while optimising financial reporting processes.
Tax Planning
Our specialist tax team offers compliance and planning services for individuals and businesses. We cover capital gains tax, inheritance tax, VAT, and corporation tax reliefs including R&D and Patent Box schemes to optimise tax efficiency.
Audit Services
As registered auditors with ICAEW, we conduct statutory audits and independent examinations. Our audit processes meet regulatory standards with quality assurance through Mercia Group reviews, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance.
Payroll Services
We manage payroll processing for businesses, ensuring HMRC compliance with monthly or weekly payment schedules. Our services include technical support for payroll software and regulatory requirement management to reduce administrative burdens.
Business Advisory
Our advisory services cover business formation, compliance packages, and growth strategies. We provide guidance on company structure, corporate governance, and regulatory requirements to support sustainable business development.
People
Stephen Allen
Managing Partner
With over 12 years as partner and founder of Stephen Allen & Co., he brings extensive experience across manufacturing, engineering, and medical sectors. Committed to personalised client service as core practice value.
Stuart Croft
Partner
Qualified ACA in 2009 with specialist knowledge in charity audits and Sage payroll systems. Holds PhD in genetics and provides technical accounting software support to clients across South Yorkshire.
Sara Dunkley
Partner
20+ years accounting experience including 10 years in industry finance management. Specialises in audit and compliance for corporate clients, qualified ICAEW member with first-time exam passes.
Gemma Lightfoot
Partner
ACCA-qualified with over 10 years managing corporate clients. Expertise in accounts production, taxation, and team training. Graduated university before joining firm in 2003 and progressed to partner.
Adam Russell
Partner
ACA-qualified with expertise in small company accounts and tax returns. Proficient in accounting software and Microsoft Excel. Joined firm in 2010 after completing AAT qualifications.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer?
We provide audit, bookkeeping, payroll, tax planning, corporate compliance, and financial strategy services tailored to businesses of all sizes.
Do you serve businesses outside Sheffield?
Yes, we serve clients across Chesterfield, the Peak District, and Bakewell from our regional offices.
How do you handle tax investigations?
Our fee protection package covers up to £125,000 in accountancy fees and provides full HMRC representation during tax investigations.
Can you assist with company formation?
Yes, we offer business incorporation services including structure advice, compliance setup, and ongoing corporate governance support.
What sectors do you specialise in?
We have particular expertise in manufacturing, healthcare, charity, gaming, and professional services sectors.
How do you support R&D tax claims?
We prepare R&D tax relief claims and implement systems to track qualifying expenditures for future claims.
