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Reporting fraud or malpractice

 
Are you concerned that somebody you know, or have had contact with, may be abusing Council services or premises? Or are you working with the Council and have witnessed malpractice?

The Council now has a free 24-hour Reporting Line that you can call. All reports are treated in the strictest confidence.

The number is: 0800 169 6975

What kind of thing should I report?

You can use this number to report:

  • fraud
  • risks to health and safety
  • illegal practices
  • Council members not meeting their obligations
  • a cover up of any of the above.

I have seen something but I'm not sure I want to report it

People often feel nervous of coming forward and reporting malpractices that they have witnessed. It is important to remember that these issues affect everybody and may be costing the Council and the tax payer money.

It is of benefit to all residents of the borough that these illegal activities are identified and stopped as soon as possible.

What if I suffer as a result of making a report?

You will be given legal protection if you are victimised as a result of making a report to the Council.

This legal protection is provided under the 1999 Public Interest Disclosure Act. The act covers information provided about:

  • a criminal offence
  • failure to comply with a legal obligation
  • a miscarriage of justice
  • dangers to health and safety
  • damage to the environment
  • deliberate cover ups of the above.

Malicious reports

You will not be offered legal support if it is discovered that you made a report with malicious intent. Such allegations cause unnecessary harm to those accused, they also waste time and money that could be spent investigating genuine reports.

Please do not be tempted to make a report against somebody just to settle a personal grudge.

Reporting other fraud

Find out more about reporting benefits fraud here

A to Z of Services

Contact information

  • 0800 169 6975