Renfrewshire Council

This week is International Fraud Awareness Awareness Week.  Fraud in the public sector costs taxpayers billions of pounds each year with significant impact on the provision of vital public services.

The Council's counter fraud team carries out investigations to prevent and detect fraud against the Council which can include procurement and contract fraud, blue badge fraud, council tax fraud, business rate fraud, and housing tenancy fraud.

Improving all colleague awareness of fraud and the steps we all need to take in preventing and report fraud is vital.

Complete our fraud awareness training

All colleagues are encouraged to complete the iLearn online Fraud Awareness training module in addition to our mandatory Cyber Security course. 

These courses are useful and necessary learning opportunities which build awareness, reinfore responsibilities and highlight best practice. Both take around 30 minutes to complete.

How to remain vigilant against fraud

STOP—If you receive a request to make an urgent payment, change bank details or provide financial information, take a moment to stop and think.

CHALLENGE—Does something look wrong? Could it be a fraudster? Only criminals will try to rush and panic you.

PROTECT—If you are concerned about something or think you've been scammed, report it. Don't feel ashamed or embarrassed. You are not alone.

1. To report suspected fraud at work, contact your manager and alert the Corporate Counter Fraud Team immediately
2. If you see usual activity on your bank account, don't hesitate to contact your bank.

Remember, fraud is not a victimless crime. It has serious consequences for individuals and takes money away from our vital public services.

Our counter fraud team can offer help and advice whenever you need it, and they can provide dedicated training for your team.  Please don't hesitate to contact them either by email at counterfraudinvestigations@renfrewshire.gov.uk or by phone on 0300 300 1314.

Published on Thursday 16 November 2023