Meeting:	Audit and Governance Committee
Meeting date:	11/03/26
Report of:	Head of Internal Audit (Veritau)
Portfolio of:	Cllrs Lomas and Baxter, Executive Members for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion

Audit and Governance Committee Report: Counter Fraud Progress Report

Subject of Report

1. This report provides an update on counter fraud work undertaken so far in 2025/26.

Policy Basis

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

Recommendation and Reasons

3. The Audit and Governance Committee is asked to:

- Note counter fraud activity.

Reason

To enable members to consider the progress of counter fraud work in the current financial year.

Background

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

5. Annex 1 to this report provides an update on work undertaken by the counter fraud team in the current financial year. This includes details of proactive work to raise awareness of fraud issues and help manage fraud risks faced by the council. It also includes the results of investigative work completed by the team.

Consultation Analysis

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

Risks and Mitigations

7. None.

Contact details

For further information please contact the authors of this Report.

Author

Name:	Jonathan Dodsworth
Job Title:	Assistant Director – Corporate Fraud
Service Area:	Veritau Limited
Telephone:	01904 552947
Report approved:	Yes
Date:	27/02/26

Background papers

· 73. Counter Fraud Plan 2025/26

Annexes

· Annex 1: Counter Fraud Progress Report