Report suspected fraud
We have a corporate fraud team who investigate fraud and irregularity allegations.
Fraud within the public sector costs the taxpayer billions every year. We are committed to zero tolerance on all aspects of fraud.
Find out more about the types of fraud
Report fraud
If you suspect fraud is taking place, report your concerns.
We encourage confidence in reporting suspected illegal or illegitimate practices. Individuals who make disclosures are completely safe.
Investigations into benefit fraud are no longer undertaken by the council. Please report benefit fraud to the Department for Works and Pensions.
All reports will be noted, but some may be resolved informally. Concerns will be handled sensitively, in confidence and without fear.
We investigate with a view to:
- criminal prosecution (dependent on circumstances) or pursuing internal disciplinary action,
- recovery of monies or property obtained through fraudulent acts.
Counter Fraud and Corruption Policy
The Counter Fraud and Corruption Policy outlines Gateshead Council's approach, as well as defining roles and responsibilities for dealing with the threat of fraud and corruption, both internally and externally. The policy also sets out Gateshead Council's commitment to tackling fraud and corruption.
Data Matching - National Fraud Initiative (NFI)
We are legally required to protect the public funds we deal with. To prevent and detect fraud we may share information held by us with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds.
To help prevent and detect fraud we take part in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI) data matching exercise carried out by the Cabinet Office.
Transparency agenda
Gateshead Council counter fraud data 2023-24
| Title | Data |
|---|---|
| Number of occasions they use powers under the Prevention of Social Housing Fraud Regulations 2014 or similar powers | 0 |
| Total number (absolute and full time equivalent) of employees undertaking investigations and prosecution of fraud | 8 absolute/ 2.86 FTE |
| Total number (absolute and full time equivalent) of professionally accredited counter fraud specialists | 3 absolute/ 2.6 FTE |
| Total amount spent by the authority on the investigation and prosecution of fraud (includes the costs of two fraud investigators, admin assistant and management) | £81,964 |
| Total number of fraud cases investigated (includes cases of irregularity) | 324 |
Counter Fraud transparency information (PDF, 10 KB)(opens new window)
Counter Fraud transparency information (csv) (Excel doc, 699 B)(opens new window)
Contact us
If you suspect something, make an immediate note of your concerns and report them using the fraud reporting form or on:
0191 433 2805
fraudreporting@gateshead.gov.uk
Corporate Fraud Team
Internal Audit and Risk
Gateshead Council
Civic Centre
NE8 1HH