The loss and harm caused by fraud in the public sector is very significant. The National Fraud Authority Annual Fraud Indicator 2013 showed an estimated annual loss of £2.1 billion to fraud in local government. More recently, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) has estimated that for local authorities in the UK, the total value of fraud detected or prevented in 2017-18 is £302 million.
Ipswich Borough Council has a duty to safeguard public funds and operates a zero tolerance policy towards fraud and corruption. The Corporate Fraud Team undertakes dedicated fraud prevention, detection, investigation and intelligence gathering activities.
In cases where fraud is found, the Council seeks to take appropriate action against the fraudster where an offence is committed.
What is tenancy fraud?
If you suspect tenancy fraud please contact the Council, providing details and the reasons you suspect fraudulent occupation. Your identity will be kept confidential. Call us or report online via the pink button.
Non-Tenancy Fraud covers fraud relating to other Council services such as: Business Rates, Council Tax Reduction, Council Tax Single Person Discount, Insurance, Licensing, Procurement, Grants etc.
If you suspect non-tenancy fraud please contact the Council, providing details and the reasons you suspect fraudulent activity. Your identity will be kept confidential. Call us or report online via the pink button.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) investigates housing benefit fraud. If you report is only about housing benefit fraud you should report it online at www.gov.uk/report-benefit-fraud
Whistleblowing is a way for employees and other Council workers (including staff working in partnership with the Council), to raise a genuine concern.
Our whistleblowing policy is available to download as a PDF:
Ipswich Borough Council - Whistleblowing Policy - October 2020