In the UK these are the main accounting bodies. Approach them to check an accountant is genuinely qualified or just for general advice. The 'F' or 'A' in the qualification stands for Fellow or Associate - a Fellow if more experienced.
Contacts
Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales Qualification: FCA, ACA Tel: 020 7920 8100 www.icaew.co.uk
Institute of Chartered Accountants, Scotland Qualification: CA Tel: 0131 347 0100 www.icas.org.uk
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Qualification: FCCA, ACCA Tel: 020 7396 5800 www.acca.org.uk