Reporting fraud and how we deal with it

Report fraud

It’s important to keep us updated on your circumstances if you claim benefits, live in council housing, run a business or receive support from council services. Failure to do so may mean that you receive help or money that you are not entitled to, and this is fraud. We take this very seriously.  
 
If you suspect someone else of committing fraud, you should report this to us.  

Choose the form for the type of fraud you wish to report and fill in as much of it as you can. If you do not know the answer to some of the questions, don't worry. 
 
If you wish, you may complete the form anonymously. If you do - please tell us everything you know to give us a better chance of solving the fraud. 
 
If you provide us with your contact details, every effort will be made to protect your identity. One of our investigators may contact you for further information. 

Report benefit fraud on the Government’s website

Report councillor or council employee fraud

Report any other type of fraud 

Preventing and detecting fraud against the Council

Newham Council carries out checks to prevent and detect fraud. If fraud is detected, you could be refused certain services, finance or employment.

We may share information provided to it with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds, law enforcement agencies, or undertake local anti-fraud initiatives, in order to prevent and detect fraud or money laundering. The personal information we have collected from you will be shared with fraud prevention agencies. Further details of how your information will be used by us, fraud prevention agencies, and your data protection rights can be found on our website and Cifas.

Report fraud by phone

If you suspect or know someone is committing fraud, phone our fraud hotline, 0800 052 2420. If you wish to report Council Tax fraud you should ring 0800 854 440.

Prosecuting fraudsters

Where we have enough evidence and it’s in the public interest we will look to prosecute those found to have committed fraud against the Council. We will also where appropriate look to recover money and assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.