Issue - meetings

The Shared Anti-Fraud Service (SAFs) submitted a report on the progress made against the Anti-Fraud Action Plan as at 31 July 2016. 

The Counter Fraud Officer provided updates to the report which had been made after the report had been published.  He explained that additional staff had been taken on board to add to the robustness of the service.  The issue of value for money in relation to the service provided, investigation and detection of fraud was discussed and assurances provided by the Counter Fraud Officer.  He explained the difficulties in trying to measure the value of the service as a deterrent but stated that as a “visible” deterrent to potential fraud, the service had value.

The Counter Fraud Officer explained that the Anti-Fraud and Corruption Policy was due for review.  Members asked that the report be submitted to them for consideration.

The Counter Fraud Officer provided an update in relation to outstanding items on the action plan.  Updates were also provided in relation to the “Cheater Campaign” and the value of running such a campaign in tandem with others.  Councillor P Ballam asked if Fraud Awareness Training could be added to the work programme.  This was supported.

In response to a query from Councillor D Oldridge regarding an excess of revenue which might be generated as a result of successful prosecutions, the County Fraud Officer assured Members that the revenue “stayed” with the Council.  He explained in what circumstances and how, expenses between partner organisations were shared.

The Committee noted the progress of the Shared Anti-Fraud services and the progress made against the Anti-Fraud Action Plan 2016/17 and agreed the Anti-Fraud Action Plan 2017/18.

RESOLVED – that (A) the progress of the Shared Anti-Fraud Service and the progress made against the Anti-Fraud Action Plan 2016/17 be noted; and

(B)   the Anti-Fraud Action Plan 2017/18 be agreed.