Welsh Audit Startup Marks Rapid Growth with Digital-First, Sector-Spanning Services

Welsh Audit Startup Marks Rapid Growth with Digital-First, Sector-Spanning Services

Cardiff-based consultancy adopts tech-enabled, purpose-driven model to deliver modern internal audit and assurance

Cardiff, UK – A new Cardiff-based consultancy is taking a digital-first approach to internal audit and risk assurance, combining professional expertise with cloud-based infrastructure and AI-powered tools.

Founded by Chartered Internal Auditors Donna Littlechild and Paul Haley, Littlechild & Haley has completed its first year in operation, delivering services across public, private, and third sectors — including NHS bodies, local government, charities, and commercial organisations.

The firm’s model, described as “Value as a Service” (VaaS), is designed to provide insight-driven, forward-looking assurance that goes beyond traditional compliance approaches. By integrating technology with professional judgement, the firm aims to offer measurable value and strategic impact.

“We built L&H because we saw how audit can and should be different,” said Donna Littlechild, Co-Founder and Director. “By using AI, automation, and smart collaboration tools, we can focus on relationships and outcomes rather than paperwork and process. The technology doesn’t replace professional judgement; it amplifies it.”

Unencumbered by legacy systems, the consultancy operates a fully cloud-based infrastructure with integrated HR, finance, CRM, and project management systems. Bespoke AI tools support risk diagnostics, data interrogation, report drafting, and meeting notes — allowing consultants to focus on higher-value analysis.

“Our independence is our strength,” added Paul Haley, Co-Founder and Director. “We’re not trying to sell multiple services. Our only focus is delivering exceptional internal audit and assurance. Clients appreciate that clarity. Every pound they spend goes into value-added work, not corporate overheads.”

In September 2025, Littlechild & Haley expanded its technology assurance capability with the appointment of Neil Belton as Head of Technology Risk and Programme Assurance. Belton brings significant experience in cyber, data, and transformation programmes and is leading the development of the firm’s tech-enabled offering.

“Modern assurance must speak the language of technology,” said Belton. “Whether it’s cyber resilience, cloud risk, or digital governance, clients need auditors who understand systems as well as strategy. That’s where we stand apart.”

The firm was recently named a finalist in the UK StartUp Awards 2025 (Professional Services category) and is listed on several public sector frameworks, including the NHS Internal Audit Framework.

With a stated goal to reach net zero by 2026 and ongoing investment in AI methodologies, the firm is positioning itself within the evolving internal audit landscape.

“Internal Audit is changing fast,” Donna Littlechild concluded. “We’re showing that you don’t need to be a global giant to lead that change — you just need clarity of purpose, courage to innovate, and a deep respect for people.”

About Littlechild & Haley

Littlechild & Haley is a Cardiff-based specialist consultancy providing internal audit, risk, and assurance services across the UK and Ireland. Combining Chartered-level expertise with digital-first delivery, the firm helps organisations strengthen governance, manage risk, and achieve strategic success.

Learn more at www.littlechildhaley.co.uk or follow @LittlechildHaley on LinkedIn.