Anti Fraud and Corruption Policy 2021 to 2022

5.1 The Council will not tolerate abuse of its services or resources and has high expectations of propriety, integrity and accountability from all parties identified within this Policy. The Council will ensure that the resources dedicated to “counter fraud” activity are sufficient and all those involved are trained to deliver a professional “counter fraud” service to the highest standards.

5.2 All fraudulent activity is unacceptable, and will result in consideration of legal action being taken against the individual(s) concerned. The Council will also pursue the repayment of any financial gain from individuals involved in malpractice and wrongdoing. The Council will ensure consistency, fairness and objectivity in all its “counter fraud” work and that everyone is treated equally.

5.3 This Policy encourages those detailed in section 3.1 to report any genuine suspicions of fraudulent activity. However, malicious allegations or those motivated by personal gain will not be tolerated and, if proven, disciplinary or legal action will be taken. Sections 8.3 and 8.4 detail the reporting arrangements in relation to incidents of fraud or irregularity.

5.4 The Council has a variety of arrangements in place with other agencies to encourage and facilitate the exchange of information and investigations in relation to the detection and prevention of fraud and corruption. These include, but are not limited to, arrangements with the following:

• External Auditor
• Department for Work & Pensions (DWP)
• The Police
• National Anti-Fraud Network
• Social Housing Landlords

The Council expects all its partners to operate to the same high standards as itself with relation to Anti Fraud and Corruption.