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How a modern approach is changing accountancy services in Barnsley
When David Scott set up DS Accounting Solutions Ltd just over a year ago, he had a simple aim – to offer a more human, approachable type of accountancy. Based at The Business Village in Barnsley, David has already built a practice of around 50 clients and earned a reputation for doing things a little differently.
David’s career started early. “I’ve been an accountant since I was 16,” he explains. “I started as an apprentice, got qualified, and worked my way through both practice and industry.” After a couple of years in Leeds as a management accountant, he decided it was time to set up on his own. “I thought, if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work – but it’s actually grown quicker than I ever imagined.”
At the time of setting up, David knew he was one of the youngest practice owners in the area. He admits he wondered if it might hold him back. “When people think of accountants, they often picture someone in their 40s or 50s,” he says. “I wanted to do things differently. Too many accountants use technical terms to show how much they know, but clients just want things explained simply. I talk to them on a human level and make the effort to visit them in person. It’s about showing I care – even if it’s just a small tip that saves them a couple of hundred pounds.”
David works with a wide mix of clients, from consultants and architects to those in the social media world. “Being younger helps with these clients because I understand their world and they feel comfortable talking to me,” he says. “At the same time, I still work with professional clients, so my list is balanced. For me, it’s not really about the type of business, it’s about the person and building the right relationships. I’m happy to work with anyone who is open and honest.”
From day one of going self-employed, David knew he didn’t want to work from home. He felt it was important to separate work from personal life. Rolling out of bed and heading to the room next door didn’t feel like the right balance.
After looking at several options, The Business Village stood out. “The price was incredibly good, I couldn’t believe the rates,” David says. “But what really sold it to me was how welcoming everyone was when I came to look round. The reception team made me feel at home straight away.”
Since moving in, David has discovered lots of practical perks that make his working life easier. “The 24/7 access is brilliant, especially when I’ve been working late nights with clients in the USA. The onsite bistro is great for taking clients for a coffee, and the parking is so handy. But the biggest thing is the people. Everyone, from the cleaners to the reception team, goes out of their way to help you.”
One example sticks in his mind. “When I first moved in, I didn’t have a desk, and the reception team found one for me. It was such a nice gesture. More recently, I was in the office for a 2am meeting and got a parking fine because I hadn’t realised the system rolled into a new day. The team helped me sort it out. Little things like that make a big difference.”
David also values the flexibility The Business Village offers. “I’d seen other business centres that expected me to attend weekly meetings and workshops. I knew I couldn’t commit to that, especially during a busy week. Sometimes you need to be left alone to get on with the work. What I like here is that they offer events and support if you want them, but there’s no pressure to take part. It’s the perfect middle ground.”
Alongside his accountancy practice, David also runs a consultancy supporting insolvency firms. “It’s a bit of a niche,” he says. “When pubs or venues go into administration, I help keep the finance side running until they find a buyer. It’s high pressure, but I enjoy it. Every job is different, and you get a real buzz from saving businesses and jobs.”
That variety is something he values. “My practice gives me stability, and I love working with my clients. But the consultancy work keeps things exciting. I’ll always make time for those jobs.”
David is relaxed about the future, saying he’s never set ambitions for his business. “I take each day as it comes. If the practice stays as it is and I carry on with the insolvency work, I’ll be happy. It’s all about finding the right balance.”
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