Report Template

Meeting:	Audit and Governance Committee
Meeting date:	06/05/2026
Report of:	Head of Internal Audit (Veritau)
Portfolio of:	Cllr Lomas Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion

Counter Fraud Progress Report incorporating Counter Fraud Annual Report 2025/26

Subject of Report

1. This report includes the counter fraud progress report, first presented to the Audit & Governance Committee at its 11 March meeting, and the 2025/26 counter fraud annual report.

2. The counter fraud progress report (Annex 1) provides an update on counter fraud work undertaken up to 31 January 2026.

3. The counter fraud annual report (Annex 2) summarises counter fraud work undertaken in 2025/26. It details levels of savings achieved by the council as a result of counter fraud work. The report also provides the committee with information about whistleblowing concerns raised in the year.

Policy Basis

4. The committee is responsible for the overview and effectiveness of counter fraud arrangements.

Recommendation and Reasons

5. The Audit and Governance Committee is asked to:

- Note the results of counter fraud work.

Reason

To enable members to consider the current risk of fraud against the council, as part of the committee’s responsibility for overseeing the effectiveness of counter fraud arrangements.

Background

6. Fraud is a significant risk to the public sector. Annual losses due to fraud and error are estimated as being up to £81 billion in the United Kingdom. Veritau is engaged to deliver a counter fraud service for the council. The service helps mitigate fraud risk, investigate suspected fraud, and take appropriate action when it is detected.

7. The reports at Annexes 1 and 2 include details of proactive work to raise awareness of fraud issues and help manage fraud risks faced by the council. They also include the results of investigative work completed by the team.

Consultation Analysis

8. No consultation was required in the preparation of this report.

Risks and Mitigations

9. The risk of fraud is constantly evolving. If fraud risk is not regularly reviewed and action is not taken to address it, then the council’s exposure to fraud will increase as will potential losses.

Contact details

For further information please contact the authors of this Report.

Author

Name:	Jonathan Dodsworth
Job Title:	Assistant Director – Corporate Fraud (Veritau)
Service Area:	Veritau Limited
Telephone:	01904 552947
Report approved:	Yes
Date:	29/04/2026