Suspect Fraud? Call the Local Counter Fraud Service on 0300 422 2726
Who are we?
The NHS Gloucestershire Local Counter Fraud Service (LCFS) is based at Victoria Warehouse, The Docks, Gloucester and provides a counter fraud service for Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust and NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board.
We are part of a national network of specialist investigators and our aim is to prevent fraud from happening and to deal with allegations that it has taken place – by NHS employees or members of the public.
What is fraud?
Fraud is when someone does something dishonestly in order to make a gain for themselves or someone else or cause a loss to another. According to the Fraud Act 2006 it is not necessary to prove a person has been deceived. The focus is on the individual’s dishonest behaviour and intent – and just trying to do it, even if not successful, makes the act complete.
Types of Fraud
Fraud manifests itself in the NHS in a variety of ways. Fraud is said to cost the NHS an estimated £5 billion every year. It is important that we are all aware of the types of fraud that are committed and are not afraid to report fraudulent behaviour.
Patient Fraud
Patient fraud includes wrongful claiming of exemption from fees or travel expenses, alteration of prescriptions, and using aliases to obtain controlled drugs.
Professionals
Fraud by NHS professionals includes claiming for treatment or services not provided, undertaking private work in NHS time and using the organisation’s equipment and materials for private work
Managers and Staff
This type of fraud involves the submission of a false CV or references; false or inflated time sheets or expenses; working elsewhere whilst on sickness absence from the organisation; abuse of organisational equipment; misappropriation of funds; claims for non-existent employees; and for goods and services that are for personal use.
Contractors and Suppliers
Contractor and supplier fraud includes charging for items of a higher quality or greater quantity than those supplied; using an inappropriate tendering processes; false or duplicate invoices; and price fixing.
Immigration Matters
Individuals who work, or attempt to work for NHS organisations supplying false documentation ranging from false passports, visas and national insurance numbers to secure employment.
What should I do if I suspect fraud?
If you are suspicious or have concerns:
- DO tell your LCFS immediately by email or telephone – your confidentiality will be respected. We never disclose the name of an informant
- DO keep or copy any document that arouses your suspicions
- DO NOT confront the individual with your suspicions
- DO NOT try to investigate your suspicions yourself
- IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF STAFF you can tell your line manager, but you are not required to – you can come directly to LCFS
Contact your Local Counter Fraud Service (LCFS)
All employees play a vital role in helping reduce losses throughout the NHS. We all therefore have a responsibility to protect the NHS from fraud and bribery at any level. If you have any concerns in regard to fraud or bribery at this organisation, or would more information or an awareness session for your team, please contact us.
Report fraud by contacting a member of the team below:
Lee Sheridan
Head of Counter Fraud Service
Telephone: 0300 422 2726 Email: leesheridan@nhs.net
Paul Kerrod
Deputy Head of Counter Fraud Service
Telephone: 0300 422 2753 Email: paul.kerrod@nhs.net
Lee Sessions
Local Counter Fraud Specialist
Telephone: 0300 422 2723 Email: lee.sessions@nhs.net
Rose Williams
Local Counter Fraud Support Assistant
Telephone: 0300 422 2742 Email: rose.williams2@nhs.net
NHS Counter Fraud Authority
Alternatively, you can contact NHS Counter Fraud Authority. It is a simple means of reporting genuine suspicions of NHS fraud. All calls are dealt with by experienced, trained staff. Callers may remain anonymous if they wish. Freephone 0800 028 4060 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm). You can also report fraud using the online reporting form.