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International Fraud Awareness Week – Fraud fighters in the spotlight

November 12, 2021

Message from Dinah McLannahan, Chief Finance Officer

Fraud is estimated to cost the NHS more than £1 billion each year- enough money to pay for over 40,000 staff nurses, 500 wards, or to purchase over 5,000 frontline ambulances. Many will be shocked to learn that some people, fortunately a small minority, seek to gain by targeting taxpayer funds that are meant for patient care – particularly at a time when NHS resources are under significant pressure.

Because fraud is a hidden crime, knowing about it is the first step in dealing with it. That’s why next week our Trust is joining hundreds of organisations around the world in promoting International Fraud Awareness Week (IFAW).

The aim of this initiative is to raise awareness of fraud and bribery in the NHS and highlight some simple things that can be done to prevent it. Our Local Counter Fraud Specialist (LCFS) has prepared a range of materials to raise awareness, including screensavers; infographics; bulletins; and videos. There will also be daily live interactive training sessions on a variety of topics.

What you can do to help

At the Trust we know fraud against the NHS is an ever-present threat and no organisation is immune from it. That’s why we support International Fraud Awareness Week and recognise the vital contribution of our fraud fighters in protecting precious NHS resources for patient care.

I would be grateful if you would take a moment to read the various communications that will be issued during the week and do not hesitate to contact our LCFS, if you wish to find out more information, or refer to our dedicated counter fraud pages on the intranet.

Reporting concerns

It is easy to report fraud, bribery or corruption affecting the NHS. You can contact:

Thank you for supporting this important initiative. Remember: all our people, our patients and the public can play a part in the fight against fraud – not just this week but all year round.