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AML Thematic Review 2025

Suspicious activity reports

We asked a sample of firms about SAR training, policies and procedures, the role of the nominated officer, levels of SAR reporting, reasons for suspicion and areas where firms would appreciate further guidance or clarity.

Read the report Watch the accompanying webinar

Inside the report

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SARs training

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Use of SARs and quality reporting

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Reasons for reporting SARs

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Key reflections

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Our top guidance

Guidance on good quality SARs and their use

Find out what information helps the UK Financial Intelligence Unit to progress a SAR and the key attributes of a good quality/useful SAR.

Read the guidance

Suspicious activity reports aren’t just a regulatory requirement, they’re vital in protecting the profession and the public.

Sandy Price AML Manager, Quality Assurance, Professional Standards, ICAEW

Our expert presenters

Sandy Price
Sandy Price Manager, Quality Assurance (AML)

Sandy originally trained with Ernst & Young, where she qualified as a chartered accountant. She then had operational roles in industry, including a few years at the BBC. This was followed by a stint as a sole practitioner which helped her to appreciate the many challenges faced by smaller firms. After 14 years as a quality assurance reviewer she now works in the AML supervisory team at ICAEW. Although her role does encompass monitoring firms' compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations, a large chunk of it is dedicated to providing guidance to our member firms.