Counter Fraud and the Role of the Local Counter Fraud Specialist

In August 1999, the Secretary of State for Health launched the Counter Fraud and Security Management specialist function to combat fraud and corruption in the NHS.

The Directions were later updated in 2004 enhancing the powers of the Counter Fraud and Security Management Service's (CFSMS) responsibility of raising the profile of counter fraud activity in the NHS with the aim of reducing losses within the service to a minimum.

The role of the Local Counter Fraud Specialist (LCFS)

Primarily, the LCFS seeks to instill and develop a counter-fraud culture within the Trust, ensuring that staff, patients and visitors alike adopt a zero-tolerance attitude towards fraud. This not only deters potential fraudsters but also encourages staff to help us prevent and detect fraud in the NHS by identifying loopholes and notifying us with suspicions of fraud.
Any notification of fraud is usually replied to within 48 hours notice of receipt. The LCFS will then verify the suspicions raised and investigate accordingly. Suspicions may be referred by staff, patients, visitors or others in any instance where the NHS has been defrauded either internally or externally. Once the LCFS has investigated a case, they will seek to obtain sanctions and redress in respect of those caught committing fraud against the Trust.

Sanctions may take the form of one or a combination of penalties, through criminal, civil and disciplinary means. Through investigative experience, the LCFS is able to confidently and appropriately investigate cases, liaising with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the guilty are brought to account whilst protecting the integrity of the NHS.

Local Counter Fraud Specialist contact details:

Priti Amin
pamin@deloitte.co.uk
Mobile: 07786 526430 

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