Reporting concerns, fraud and wrongdoing

We are committed to the highest possible standards of openness, honesty, integrity and accountability. Any activity which falls below these standards should be reported to us.

Reports can be made anonymously but we would appreciate it if you could provide your contact details. This allows us to seek clarification on the information you have provided (if necessary).

Please phone us on 0800 633 5267 or report fraud online, unless Benefit Fraud is involved (see below). 

If your report is in relation to Benefit Fraud, please see alternative contact details below.

Corruption and internal fraud

Council officials are not permitted to accept bribes. Bribing a Council officer is a serious criminal offence. If you know of anyone at Redbridge Council who has accepted a bribe or has asked for money to make a particular decision, please tell us about it.

National Fraud Initiative

Redbridge Council participates in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI).

Fraud affecting the Council

Fraud costs the public sector an estimated £20 billion per year. Two billion is lost by local government alone. Fraud has an impact on the level of Council and Income Tax and resources available to share amongst our community.

Our Audit Team investigates all allegations of fraud and corruption, whether you suspect our staff, partners, contractors or residents, please don't hesitate to report fraud.

Here are some of the external fraud types we investigate:

• housing fraud e.g. illegal subletting, false application for housing
• tenancy fraud
• council tax fraud e.g. claiming to be single and receiving 25% discount on your Council Tax
• business rates fraud e.g. companies falsely claiming empty property or charitable relief
• insurance fraud e.g. people who make false or exaggerated insurance claims against the council for tripping on pavements
• direct payments fraud e.g. people who falsely claim to be disabled to obtain care funds

Housing benefit fraud

Housing Benefit fraud investigations are conducted by the Single Fraud Investigations Service, part of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

To help combat benefit fraud, please contact the DWP using the following options:

• report it online
• by phone -  Contact the National Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 854 440, your call is free and confidential, you do not have to give your name or address. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
• by text phone on 0800 328 0512