Fraud Investigation
Commercial Services Fraud Investigation Business Service
Here at South Staffordshire Council we have a dedicated Fraud Investigation Business Service (FIBS). Our Investigation Service has:-
- Over forty five years of Housing Benefit/Council Tax and Welfare Benefit knowledge;
- Current experience of investigating tenancy/Right To Buy fraud;
- Twenty five years of investigative experience;
- A proven capability to conclude investigations with a sanction;
- The expertise and skills necessary to collect and collate evidence to the standard necessary for prosecution.
Our Investigators conduct all investigations in full compliance of the requirements of:-
- The Fraud Act 2006
- The Prevention of Social Housing Fraud Act 2013
- The Council Tax reduction Scheme regulation 2013 s4 and s5
- The Housing Act 1996 s171
- Criminal Investigation Procedures Act 1996
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984
- Data Protection Act 1984
- The Human Rights Act 1998
Our Investigators are trained and qualified Accredited Counter Fraud Specialists, a qualification ratified by the Institute of Criminal Studies Portsmouth University (Professional in Security-PINS) and have achieved further professional development having qualified as:-
- Authorised Officers;
- PINS Management; and
- Certified Counter Fraud Officer.
The team continuously seeks to develop and enhance their skills in order to provide a cost effective, efficient and comprehensive investigative service.
FIBS specialise in the following types of fraud investigations:-
- Council Tax Reduction Scheme Fraud;
- Council Tax Liability Fraud;
- National Non Domestic Rate Fraud;
Tenancy Fraud including Right To Buy (RTB) and Right To Acquire (RTA)
Please contact Deborah Harris, Audit Manager for an informal discussion on the services we offer :-
01902 696611 / Deborah.Harris@sstaffs.gov.uk