How does volunteering accounting work?

[filthiestfis]

My partner has a degree in accounting but as it is European and not UK based it has proved to be worthless for her in finding an accounting job in the UK so far (2 years). As a result, she is studying an AAT course as well.
This has proven to be unfruitful too as employers are only interested in worked experience.
Now, she is looking for voluntary work and I would like to know how this works.
If she is hired to work for nothing, will there still be a contract to sign? Will she get the same holiday benefits as if she was working? Will she get the same break entitlements?
Should the employer pay for her transport costs to and from work or is this discretionary?
I just dont want her to be taken advantage of but she really needs the experience to become employable. Thank you.

[tamborine]

Volunteer accountancy usually do pay personal exes submitted, ie petrol, toners & stationery, postage etc. As a SE there are no employee rights or salary.

[tamborine]

An advert for accounting in your locals mags/papers would bring in Self Employed for Tax Returns etc. Its now the end of current tax year and lots of work to be had in this field.

[Androcles]

It is often easier to build from the bottom up. just an idea, but how about her investing in an accounting package such as Sage or Quickbooks and offering a book keeping service to self-employed and small businesses. Almost inevitably she will get drawn into them asking her professional accounting questions, and from there she can build it up to an accounting service rather than just book-keeping. You need to get your foot in the door first! She could then offer to do the books for local charities and societies as well, she will have the kit and can ask them for her expenses or even a small honorarium for doing it.

[David Black]

Where are you based?

[scottlouie123]

Offer accounting usually do pay individual exes posted, ie fuel, toners & invitations, delivery etc. As a SE there are no worker privileges or wage.

For more info visit : http://www.doshiuk.com