“NHS fraud. Spot it, report it, together we stop it”

Health commissioners in south Sefton are embracing International Fraud Awareness Week (IFAW) by raising awareness of fraud committed against the NHS.

IFAW will take place from 17 November to 23 November, celebrating counter fraud work as well as reminding Sefton residents and NHS staff of their part they play in helping to detect fraud in the health service.

NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is supporting the NHS Counter Fraud Authority’s (NHSCFA) national campaign raising awareness of fraud, bribery and corruption committed against the NHS and the wider health service.

Fraud costs the NHS an estimated £1.27 billion a year – that is equivalent to over 56,000 junior doctors or over 40,000 staff nurses. Fraud is committed by a wide range of people, from NHS staff and the general public, to suppliers. Although fraud is committed by a small minority of people, it has a big impact on NHS resources and patient care.

Martin McDowell, chief finance officer and deputy chief officer at the CCG, said:

“Fraud against the NHS affects is all and that’s why it’s something that we need to talk about. By promoting International Fraud Awareness Week, we hope to shed light on the ways in which people commit fraud against the NHS, how we can all work together to lessen the risks and the work we do to fight financial crime affecting the NHS.”

If you suspect that anyone is committing fraud or another economic crime against the NHS, tell NHSCFA about it – you can call our 24-hour, confidential reporting line 0800 028 40 60 or visit their website to report it online: cfa.nhs.uk