Fraud affects everyone — from local councils to national governments, businesses, and communities. That’s why every November, we join organisations around the world take part in International Fraud Awareness Week, a global campaign to shine a spotlight on fraud and how we can fight it together.

The Cost of Fraud

According to the Public Sector Fraud Authority, fraud and error cost the UK government between £39.8 billion and £58.5 billion every year. That’s money that could be spent on schools, social care, housing, and other vital services.

At Halton Borough Council, we take fraud seriously. Every pound lost to fraud is a pound taken away from the services our residents rely on — from care packages to community support.

What We’re Doing

This week is a chance for us to:

• Raise awareness of common types of fraud

• Share how we prevent and detect fraud

• Encourage staff and residents to report concerns

Our Corporate Fraud Team works year-round to protect public funds. We investigate reports, recover losses, and share intelligence with other councils and regional fraud networks.

In 2024/25, we:

• Investigated over 120 cases of suspected fraud

• Identified overpayments totalling £42,000

• Issued financial penalties of £3,000

Common Types of Fraud We See

Fraud against the Council can happen when someone provides false or incomplete information to access services they’re not entitled to. Examples include:

• Council Tax fraud (e.g. undeclared second adult or income)

• Social Care fraud

• Insurance fraud

• Direct Payment fraud

• Business Rates fraud

The most frequent type in Halton is Council Tax fraud, especially false claims for Single Occupancy Discount or Council Tax Reduction. So far this year we have issued penalties with a value of £80,000 for failure to notify the Council that a second adult had moved in.

What You Can Do

If you suspect fraud, don’t ignore it — report it. Your actions can help recover lost funds and protect services for those who truly need them.

Report fraud confidentially:

• Call: 0151 511 7799

• Email: fraud@halton.gov.uk

• Online: reportfraud

Final Message

Fraud is not a victimless crime. It affects all of us. By staying alert and reporting concerns, you’re helping to protect public money and support your community.

Let’s work together to stop fraud in its tracks.