DIHC’s Local Counter Fraud Service Provider
What is this service?
All NHS organisations are required by the NHS Counter Fraud Authority (the NHS body responsible for tackling all forms of crime against the NHS), to have in place a Local Counter Fraud Specialist (LCFS) to combat fraud, bribery and corruption, and help safeguard NHS resources. Our provider is CW Audit, whose LCFS’s are accredited and are suitably qualified to carry out this work to the required national standard.
Any Trust employee, agency staff, contractors or members of the public who have suspicions of fraud within the Trust can approach the LCFS confidentially and anonymously. The activities of the LCFS include:
- Carrying out an agreed programme of preventative anti-fraud and anti-corruption activity
- Deciding whether internal/external referrals or matters raised through the whistleblowing process need to be investigated
- Investigating cases in accordance with the NHS Standard Contract (Service Condition 24) and the NHS Fraud and Corruption Manual; ensuring a full and fair investigation
- Reporting to the Director of Finance (DoF) to ensure he is kept appraised of all cases
- Reporting to the Audit Committee on all counter fraud work undertaken at the Trust
- Reporting any case to the police where necessary, in consultation with the DoF, the Chief Executive and the NHS Counter Fraud Authority.
How can I report a suspicion of Fraud?
Where a report of a suspicion of fraud, bribery or corruption, against the NHS is being made, please provide as much information as possible. Advice will also be given where an individual has a concern but is not sure whether the matter is a fraud against the NHS.
Our nominated Local Counter Fraud Specialist is:
Paul Westwood
Mobile: 07545 502400
Other members of the team are:
You can also report any concerns using the following form: document Referral Form (28 KB)
