
Meet the team who take care of you
Our team
Karen Gascoigne
Founder
I bring the energy, drive and passion that will make a real difference to your business. You’ll also benefit from my 30+ years’ experience in customer service, management, business development and sales.
I started out in banking and health insurance, then estate agency management and eventually bookkeeping, VA and office management.
I recently managed the interior design and set up of a boutique hotel in the Caribbean, recruiting staff, setting up systems and then marketing and managing the hotel. Tough assignment, but somebody had to do it!
I returned to the UK in 2013 and put all these diverse experiences together to offer businesses the support they need. I like nothing more than helping others to be their best.
I’m a qualified bookkeeper with the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers.
At weekends I enjoy watching my son playing sports, walking my dog and spending time with family and friends (with the odd gin thrown in!)
Emma
Office Manager
I am the friendly face behind the admin magic. With a background in hospitality management, I understand the value of smooth operations and exceptional customer service. I bring a unique blend of efficiency, organisation, and customer care to every task I take on.
Over the years, I have supported a wide range of businesses with everything from day-to-day admin and call handling to bookkeeping and payroll. My calm, can-do attitude and attention to detail makes me a trusted partner for business owners who need support they can count on.
I’m efficient, reliable, and ready to take the pressure off so you can focus on growing your business.
When I’m not keeping businesses running smoothly, I love spending time with my family and enjoy getting outdoors for a good run.
Nicole
Senior Account Manager
I am a qualified bookkeeper with AAT accreditation and over eight years of office experience supporting small businesses with their finances. I have a genuine passion for numbers (yes, the kind of person who actually enjoys spreadsheets) and am fully trained in both Xero and Sage accounting software. When it comes to Microsoft Office (especially Excel) I am a self-proclaimed whizz who finds joy in formulas, shortcuts, and tidy tabs.
Known for my eye for detail, calm approach, and love of a challenge, I take pride in solving problems quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s day-to-day bookkeeping, month-end processes, or catching up on overdue records, I get things done without the fuss. My work is thorough, timely, and tailored to each business’s unique needs. I am trusted by businesses who want their finances handled with care, clarity, and attention to the details that matter.
Efficient, organised, and quietly obsessive about neat books, because even numbers need a little discipline and I’ve got that covered.
Sharon
Account Manager
With over 30 years of experience in administration and accounting, I’ve seen it all – and solved most of it. From Microsoft Office and Sage 50 Cloud Payroll to Xero and beyond, I’m fluent in the tools that keep businesses running smoothly. And if you use something new? I’m a fast learner who loves a challenge.
Detail is my domain. One of my proudest moments was navigating the furlough scheme for over 90 hospitality employees – accurately, efficiently, and with empathy during a tough time.
I thrive on solving accounting puzzles. Whether it’s a tricky reconciliation or a system glitch, I’m in my element when untangling the numbers.
Outside the office, you’ll find me with a good book and a cup of tea – or planning my next countryside walk with our dog. I also dabble in DIY projects and the local Tuesday night pub quiz!
Fun fact: I’m a total sucker for reality TV – give me a dramatic dinner party meltdown or a baking disaster, and I’m hooked.
Laura
Account Manager
I bring many years of experience in accounting, with a strong background in managing sales and purchase ledgers, as well as payroll. I’m known for my exceptional attention to detail and take great pride in ensuring that every figure balances perfectly, right down to the last penny.
I am proficient in a variety of platforms, including Xero Accounting & Payroll, Hubdoc, and WorkflowMax, making me a reliable and versatile support for any business in need of tidy, up-to-date accounts. I also have a passion for problem-solving, which makes me especially skilled at helping clients get their books back on track.
When I’m not working, I enjoy long walks with my energetic cocker spaniel and spending quality time with my family.
Tracey
Account Manager
I have many years of experience within an office environment; both administration and finance. Think of me as your virtual assistant with emails, telephone calls, proof reading, transcription and tea making (well, that’s here in the office and you are welcome to join us).
Credit control is my number one function here at Solace – let me take control of your debtors and we’ll soon have those outstanding invoice numbers down and more money in your bank.
I also take care of bookkeeping and reconciliation. Nothing brings me more joy in the office than seeing a neatly organised set of books (well, maybe cake…).
We all love to see a smiling business owner enjoying time with their family as we take the bookkeeping stress away.
Lucinda
Account Manager
I have eleven years of dedicated experience in accountancy and bookkeeping and what drives me most is the satisfaction of transforming complex financial challenges into clear, organized solutions – there’s nothing quite like helping a client make sense of their books.
My technical foundation spans the essential tools of modern bookkeeping, including comprehensive proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and specialized training in both Sage and Xero accounting platforms.
Professional growth remains a cornerstone of my approach to this field. I’m currently pursuing additional qualifications to further enhance my expertise and stay ahead of evolving industry standards and regulations.
When I’m not behind the computer, I love being in the great outdoors with my girls and our four-legged friends, either on foot or hoof and normally with hay in my hair! We love exploring new places and meeting up with friends for dinner.
Max
Meet our CSO Max! (Chief Snuggle Officer)
When he’s not snoozing on the sofa in the office, or chasing the birds around the garden, Max loves to give us a moment of fun! He makes sure we’re all working hard as he parades around our desks through out the day!
Max isn’t taking calls right now, but we can certainly pass on a message!
Blog and News
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Embrace Autumn: Setting Fresh Goals for Your Business Before Year-End
As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, autumn signals a natural shift in seasons. For many business owners, it’s a perfect

Karen Gascoigne
Founder
I bring the energy, drive and passion that will make a real difference to your business. You’ll also benefit from my 30+ years’ experience in customer service, management, business development and sales.
I started out in banking and health insurance, then estate agency management and eventually bookkeeping, VA and office management.
I recently managed the interior design and set up of a boutique hotel in the Caribbean, recruiting staff, setting up systems and then marketing and managing the hotel. Tough assignment, but somebody had to do it!
I returned to the UK in 2013 and put all these diverse experiences together to offer businesses the support they need. I like nothing more than helping others to be their best.
I’m a qualified bookkeeper with the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers.
At weekends I enjoy watching my son playing sports, walking my dog and spending time with family and friends (with the odd gin thrown in!)
Emma
Office Manager
I am the friendly face behind the admin magic. With a background in hospitality management, I understand the value of smooth operations and exceptional customer service. I bring a unique blend of efficiency, organisation, and customer care to every task I take on.
Over the years, I have supported a wide range of businesses with everything from day-to-day admin and call handling to bookkeeping and payroll. My calm, can-do attitude and attention to detail makes me a trusted partner for business owners who need support they can count on.
I’m efficient, reliable, and ready to take the pressure off so you can focus on growing your business.
When I’m not keeping businesses running smoothly, I love spending time with my family and enjoy getting outdoors for a good run.
Nicole
Senior Account Manager
I am a qualified bookkeeper with AAT accreditation and over eight years of office experience supporting small businesses with their finances. I have a genuine passion for numbers (yes, the kind of person who actually enjoys spreadsheets) and am fully trained in both Xero and Sage accounting software. When it comes to Microsoft Office (especially Excel) I am a self-proclaimed whizz who finds joy in formulas, shortcuts, and tidy tabs.
Known for my eye for detail, calm approach, and love of a challenge, I take pride in solving problems quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s day-to-day bookkeeping, month-end processes, or catching up on overdue records, I get things done without the fuss. My work is thorough, timely, and tailored to each business’s unique needs. I am trusted by businesses who want their finances handled with care, clarity, and attention to the details that matter.
Efficient, organised, and quietly obsessive about neat books, because even numbers need a little discipline and I’ve got that covered.
Sharon
Account Manager
With over 30 years of experience in administration and accounting, I’ve seen it all – and solved most of it. From Microsoft Office and Sage 50 Cloud Payroll to Xero and beyond, I’m fluent in the tools that keep businesses running smoothly. And if you use something new? I’m a fast learner who loves a challenge.
Detail is my domain. One of my proudest moments was navigating the furlough scheme for over 90 hospitality employees – accurately, efficiently, and with empathy during a tough time.
I thrive on solving accounting puzzles. Whether it’s a tricky reconciliation or a system glitch, I’m in my element when untangling the numbers.
Outside the office, you’ll find me with a good book and a cup of tea – or planning my next countryside walk with our dog. I also dabble in DIY projects and the local Tuesday night pub quiz!
Fun fact: I’m a total sucker for reality TV – give me a dramatic dinner party meltdown or a baking disaster, and I’m hooked.
Laura
Account Manager
I bring many years of experience in accounting, with a strong background in managing sales and purchase ledgers, as well as payroll. I’m known for my exceptional attention to detail and take great pride in ensuring that every figure balances perfectly, right down to the last penny.
I am proficient in a variety of platforms, including Xero Accounting & Payroll, Hubdoc, and WorkflowMax, making me a reliable and versatile support for any business in need of tidy, up-to-date accounts. I also have a passion for problem-solving, which makes me especially skilled at helping clients get their books back on track.
When I’m not working, I enjoy long walks with my energetic cocker spaniel and spending quality time with my family.
Tracey
Account Manager
I have many years of experience within an office environment; both administration and finance. Think of me as your virtual assistant with emails, telephone calls, proof reading, transcription and tea making (well, that’s here in the office and you are welcome to join us).
Credit control is my number one function here at Solace – let me take control of your debtors and we’ll soon have those outstanding invoice numbers down and more money in your bank.
I also take care of bookkeeping and reconciliation. Nothing brings me more joy in the office than seeing a neatly organised set of books (well, maybe cake…).
We all love to see a smiling business owner enjoying time with their family as we take the bookkeeping stress away.
Lucinda
Account Manager
I have eleven years of dedicated experience in accountancy and bookkeeping and what drives me most is the satisfaction of transforming complex financial challenges into clear, organized solutions – there’s nothing quite like helping a client make sense of their books.
My technical foundation spans the essential tools of modern bookkeeping, including comprehensive proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and specialized training in both Sage and Xero accounting platforms.
Professional growth remains a cornerstone of my approach to this field. I’m currently pursuing additional qualifications to further enhance my expertise and stay ahead of evolving industry standards and regulations.
When I’m not behind the computer, I love being in the great outdoors with my girls and our four-legged friends, either on foot or hoof and normally with hay in my hair! We love exploring new places and meeting up with friends for dinner.
Max
Meet our CSO Max! (Chief Snuggle Officer)
When he’s not snoozing on the sofa in the office, or chasing the birds around the garden, Max loves to give us a moment of fun! He makes sure we’re all working hard as he parades around our desks through out the day!
Max isn’t taking calls right now, but we can certainly pass on a message!