Decision details

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet approve the Counter Fraud Strategy for 2025 to 2028 as set out in Appendix A.

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation introduced a refreshed Counter Fraud Strategy for the period 2025 to 2028, noting that the Team had achieved savings of £10.1 million in the current financial year, with notable success in areas such as housing tenancy, temporary accommodation, business rates, and social care. Despite past successes, fraudulent activity in the Borough had not decreased, necessitating continued investment in the team. The Cabinet Member noted that the three-year strategy outlined key objectives, including maximizing loss prevention and recovery, restricting opportunities for fraud and corruption, creating a strong deterrent, and promoting a culture of zero tolerance towards fraud. The strategy also aimed to enhance the Council's reputation through visible counter fraud activities and maintain organisation-wide fraud risk awareness. The team were thanked for their achievements.

The Leader of the Council expressed surprise at the £10 million worth of fraud identified and emphasised the importance of continued investment in the counter fraud team's work.

Cabinet, therefore, approved the Counter Fraud Strategy for 2025 to 2028, which set out the strategic approach to fraud prevention and detection across the Council.

Alternative options considered / risk management

Cabinet could have considered not to have an up-to-date strategy, but noted this would not be compliant with new legislation on failure to prevent fraud and reasonable fraud prevention procedures that need to be in place.