The Council has a 'zero tolerance' approach to fraud, bribery and corruption and is committed to making sure that the opportunity for illegal acts are minimised. We also welcome residents and members of the general public to refer potential and actual fraud to ourselves.
What is fraud?
Fraud is an intentional false representation, including failure to declare information or abuse of position that is carried out to make gain, cause loss or expose another to the risk of loss.
Why Do We Investigate Fraud Against the Council?
Fraud is a serious issue that affects both public and private sector organisations, costing the UK economy an estimated £52 billion each year.
Over £2.1 billion of this loss relates to Local Government alone. These losses have significant consequences—reducing the funds available for vital frontline services that support our communities.
Fraud is not a victimless crime. In local government, the real victims are Council Tax payers and residents who rely on the essential services we provide.
That’s why we take fraud seriously. Our commitment to protecting public funds is outlined in our Sefton Council -Anti Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy, Counter Fraud Strategy and Whistleblowing Policy
Types of Fraud Investigated by Sefton Council
Sefton Council is committed to identifying and investigating various forms of fraud, including but not limited to the following:
Council Tax and Business Rates Fraud
- Council Tax Fraud: This includes false claims related to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme or Single Person Discount. It typically involves providing misleading or incorrect information to reduce or avoid paying Council Tax.
More information can be found on our Benefit and Council Tax Fraud page.
- Business Rates Fraud: Occurs when individuals or businesses submit false information to lower or eliminate their business rates. This may include falsely claiming a property is vacant to qualify for a reduction.
Blue Badge (Disabled Parking) Misuse
Fraudulent use of the Blue Badge scheme includes:
- Using an expired badge
- Using a badge belonging to a deceased person
- Forging or copying a badge
- Using a badge reported as lost or stolen
- Using someone else’s valid badge for personal benefit
Adult Social Care Fraud
This includes:
- Misuse of direct payments (e.g., spending on unauthorised items)
- Carers submitting false claims for expenses or wages
- Exaggerating disabilities or care needs to receive support
- Failing to declare savings or assets during financial assessments
Procurement Fraud
This occurs when someone manipulates any part of the procurement process for personal gain or to cause financial loss. It can involve both external contractors and internal staff.
Public Funding and Grant Fraud
This involves individuals or groups fraudulently claiming grants or public funds they are not entitled to, such as Green Homes grants or exemptions.
Occupational and Employee Fraud
- Recruitment Fraud: Includes falsifying qualifications or references during job applications.
- Financial Misrepresentation: Examples include submitting false expense claims, working elsewhere while on sick leave, or abusing flexitime or leave policies.
- Asset Misappropriation: Involves theft of council property or using council suppliers for personal purchases.
Other Types of Fraud
The above examples are not exhaustive. Sefton Council investigates all forms of suspected fraud. If you believe someone is defrauding the Council, you can report it confidentially.
How to Report Fraud
Online: Contact Form - Section 1 - MyServices
Email: FraudReporting@sefton.gov.uk
Post: Chief Internal Auditor, Corporate Services, Magdalen House, 30 Trinity Rd, Bootle L20 3NJ
Please Note: Suspected fraudulent claims for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit should be reported directly to the DWP at gov.uk/report-benefit-fraud or by calling 0800 854 440 or by post : National Benefit Fraud Hotline, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 2BP
Information about the Council’s Whistleblowing Policy and how to refer a potential whistleblowing concern to the Council can be found here: Whistleblowing Policy
For any further information please go to the Action Fraud website