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Tackling fraud

Our counter fraud team are part of a national network of specialist investigators. Our aim is to prevent it from happening and to deal with fraud allegations.

On this page

What is fraud?

Fraud is when someone does something dishonestly in order to make a gain for themselves or someone else or cause a loss to another.

According to the Fraud Act 2006, it is not necessary to prove a person has been deceived.

The focus is on the individual’s dishonest behaviour and intent. Just trying to do it, even if not successful, makes the act complete.

Read a copy of our counter fraud and corruption policy.

Types of fraud

Fraud manifests itself in the NHS in a variety of ways, and is said to cost the NHS an estimated £5 billion every year.

It's important that we are all aware of the types of fraud that are committed and are not afraid to report fraudulent behaviour:

  • Patient fraud: this includes wrongful claiming of exemption from fees or travel expenses, alteration of prescriptions, and using aliases to obtain controlled drugs.
  • Clinicians: fraud by NHS professionals includes claiming for treatment or services not provided, undertaking private work in NHS time, and using Trust equipment and materials for private work
  • Support functions: this can include the submission of a false CV or references, false or inflated time sheets or expenses, working elsewhere whilst on sickness absence from the Trust, abuse of Trust equipment, misappropriation of funds, claims for non-existent employees, and claims for goods and services that are for personal use.
  • Contractors and suppliers: contractor and supplier fraud includes charging for items of a higher quality or greater quantity than those supplied, using an inappropriate tendering processes, false or duplicate invoices, and price fixing.
  • Immigration matters: individuals who work, or attempt to work for NHS organisations supplying false documentation ranging from false passports, visas and national insurance numbers to secure employment.

Take a look at our anti-bribery statement

Mandate Fraud Supplier Guide

The NHS expects suppliers to be vigilant and proactively look for fraud, including the risk of fraud in their own business dealings with the NHS. The guidance below highlights good practices and risks associated with Bank Mandate Fraud.

Mandate guide

If you suspect fraud

If you are suspicious or have concerns:

Do

  • tell your local counter fraud service immediately (your confidentiality will be respected, we never disclose the name of an informant)

  • keep or copy any document that arouses your suspicions

Don’t

  • do not confront the individual with your suspicions

  • do not try to investigate your suspicions yourself

If you have any concerns in regard to fraud or bribery at this Trust, or would more information or an awareness session for your team, please contact us.

Contacts

  • Lee Sheridan, head of counter fraud service: 0300 422 2726
  • Paul Kerrod, deputy head of counter fraud service: 0300 422 2753
  • Lee Sessions: local counter fraud specialist: 0300 422 2723
  • Rose Williams, local counter fraud support assistant: 0300 422 2742

You can also follow us on Twitter, or connect with us on LinkedIn.

NHS Counter Fraud Authority

You can also contact the NHS Counter Fraud Authority to report suspected fraudulent activity.

All calls are dealt with by experienced, trained staff. Callers may remain anonymous if they wish.

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