What happens when we receive a referral?
Every referral we receive is registered on our system and is
risk assessed to ensure we apply a fair, consistent approach to
investigations. Referrals are 'scored' against the risk assessment
criteria and a decision is taken on whether or not we investigate.
Due to the amount of referrals we receive, it is not always
possible for us to investigate every one we receive.
If we do not investigate a referral then we may send it to the
Fraud Investigation Service at the Department for Work and
Pensions. We may also pass cases to the council's intervention
visiting officers.
If the referral is accepted then it will be allocated to an
investigator within 10 working days of receipt. The investigator
will conduct an investigation in accordance with the laws that
govern criminal investigations.
Some cases take longer to investigate as we quite often rely on
third parties to provide us with information. We also have to reply
on reassessment of benefits and decisions regarding correct
entitlement to benefit. The process is complex and lengthy but we
have to follow rigid procedures.
Unfortunately due to The Data Protection Act 1998, we cannot provide
feedback on an investigation although we do actively publicise all
prosecution cases as we realise the long term benefit of deterrent
action.
Can I remain anonymous when I make a referral?
If you make a referral via the Internet, by letter or by
telephone, you do not have to give us your name. Please use our
online fraud referral form by using this link:
You will remain completely anonymous to us.
If you choose to give us your name then your details will remain
confidential throughout the investigation.