5 April 2005 - Benefit Fraud Inspectorate (BFI) Inspection Report on Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Alan Johnson, has today published an inspection report by the BFI on Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s counter-fraud arrangements.
In 2003/04 Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council administered some £10 million in housing benefits, about 35 per cent of its gross revenue expenditure. BFI's Comprehensive Performance Assessment in April 2004 found weaknesses in the council’s counter-fraud arrangements. The inspection found that since then the situation has improved and the counter-fraud service is now performing to a reasonable standard. It is clear that the council is now committed to improving its counter-fraud service and this was shown by the prompt and positive reaction from Members, senior managers and staff to BFI’s findings and recommendations.
There is now a comprehensive set of policies and procedures to guide staff, and investigators are experienced and generally well trained, although did not fully comply with legislation and guidance in some investigations. However, inspectors were pleased with the council’s positive reaction to rectify this.
Senior managers and Members need to ensure that internal and external auditors support their efforts to ensure that the Benefits system is safe and secure.
In September 2004, the council made a successful bid for Performance Standards funding to provide a Training and Support Officer and was keen to explore further funding for other counter-fraud initiatives.
BFI is an independent unit within the Department for Work and Pensions that reports directly to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on the standard of benefit administration and counter-fraud activity.
Chris Pond, Minister for Housing Benefit and Anti-Fraud, announced the publication of the report in a written ministerial statement.
Notes for editors
- The focused inspection at Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council included an initial fact finding stage, an on-site visit, and production and clearance of the report. The on-site visit took place during November 2004.
- Each BFI inspection report is considered by the Secretary of State who decides whether any further action is appropriate. The Secretary of State has powers to issue directions to a local authority to secure acceptable or minimum standards in performance.
- Media copies of the BFI inspection report can be obtained from the Department for Work and Pensions Press Office on 020 7238 0866.
- All BFI inspection reports can be found on the BFI website.
Department for Work and Pensions Press enquiries: 020 7238 0866
BFI Press enquiries: 01423 83 2938
Out of hours: 07659 108883
Public enquiries: 020 7712 2171
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk