MINIMISING THE RISK OF FRAUD TO THE PUBLIC SECTOR
“Reducing fraud and error is one way in which local authorities can make real savings and protect frontline services”
Fraud Advisory Panel
Fraud is not a victimless crime. It increases costs to the consumer, undermines confidence in businesses and deprives charities, voluntary organisations and the public sector of valuable funds. Fraud against the public sector is estimated to cost over £40 billion a year, whilst the cost to local government exceeds £7 billion. As resources come under increasing pressure, tackling the threat of fraud then becomes a priority.
Why is combating fraud important?
Fraud can have a substantial impact on organisations, individuals and communities. As well as the financial cost, there is the potential reputational damage, loss of trust, disruption to services and harm to society. For example, housing tenancy fraud can deprive families of the opportunity to have their own home, whilst social care fraud reduces the funds available to support vulnerable adults and children.
Prevention is always preferable but no-one is completely immune from the risk of fraud. Individuals, businesses, charities and the public sector are all susceptible. Where fraud occurs, organisations need to be able to respond quickly and effectively.
What can we offer?
Veritau’s approach is designed to help you to reduce the risks of fraud particularly at a time when the resources available to the public sector are increasingly scarce. We can help you to put in place measures to prevent fraud occurring or, where it does occur, to ensure it is detected at an early stage. We can also support you with the investigation of fraud and the recovery of losses if you unfortunately become a victim.
We can support you in a range of areas, including:
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Fraud prevention measures |
National Fraud Initiative (NFI) |
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Risk mitigation strategies |
Investigation |
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Compliance audits |
Prosecution and recovery |
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Fraud awareness |
Training and advice |
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Data matching and interrogation |
Policy development |
Why choose Veritau?
Flexibility
We recognise that all organisations are different so the service we provide can be tailored to meet your specific needs. We will listen carefully to your requirements and concerns, review your existing counter fraud arrangements and design our service accordingly.
Responsive
We provide advice and support to a variety of public sector organisations on the measures available to prevent fraud occurring. We will respond promptly to any reports of suspected fraud. Each case is allocated to a named investigator who will keep you updated of progress.
Experience
Our team are experienced in investigating all types of public sector fraud including housing tenancy, benefit, social care, procurement, blue badge and employee related fraud. We work closely with other agencies including the police, trading standards and the Department for Work and Pensions. Our trained investigators are able to undertake surveillance, conduct interviews under caution and prepare cases for court.
Quality
Veritau has a proven track record when it comes to conducting investigations to the required standards and in accordance with legislation. All our investigators are accredited counter fraud specialists. Veritau is also recognised as an Investor in People.
Independence
We provide impartial and objective advice which is recognised and valued by our clients.
Access to wider Veritau expertise
You can benefit from the wider services that Veritau provides in house and through its various partnerships, including risk management, information governance and audit assurance services.
Veritau's counter fraud team has been shortlisted for the 'Excellence in Counter Fraud' Award from the IRRV in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
