The National Fraud Initiative (NFI) is a bi-annual, counter-fraud, data-matching exercise – led by Audit Scotland and overseen by the Cabinet Office for the whole of the UK.
Audit Scotland requires the Council to provide certain data it holds under its powers in Part 2A of the Public Finance and Accountability (Scotland) Act 2000.
During the last NFI exercise, identified outcomes in East Dunbartonshire were valued at £1.3 million. The cumulative outcomes in Scotland are now £180 million, and in excess of £2.4 billion for the UK as a whole.
Computerised data matching allows potentially fraudulent claims and payments to be identified. Where a match is found, it indicates that there may be an inconsistency which requires further investigation. No assumption can be made as to whether there is fraud, error or other explanation until an investigation is conducted. The exercise can also help bodies to ensure that their records are up to date.
Details of how we use employees’ data is contained within the Employee Privacy Notice.
Whilst the NFI exercise is vital for the Council’s commitment to safeguarding public funds and maintaining the highest standards of probity, it is recognised that the most important defence we have is our employees.
If an employee suspects fraud to have occurred, they must report this using one of the following methods:
Employees can also report concerns via the Whistleblowing webpage.
I want to remind everybody of the valuable resource we have in our Corporate Fraud Team.
While their primary role is to investigate potential fraud, they are also here to support us all by offering expert advice on fraud-prevention measures.
Whether you are implementing new processes, reviewing existing controls or have any questions on how to mitigate potential risks, the Corporate Fraud Team can offer practical guidance to strengthen our safeguards.
If you would like assistance or if you have any questions or concerns, please email fraud@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
Further information about the NFI, including the instructions from Audit Scotland and a copy of the Code of Data Matching Practice, are available within the Fraud section.
Thank you,
Jamie Robertson
Chief Finance Officer, Executive Officer, Finance & Digital Services
