DWP publishes benefit fraud inspectorate report

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Andrew Smith has today published a report by the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate (BFI) on the
administration of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit and counter-fraud activity by East Renfrewshire Council.

BFI inspected the council against the Performance Standards for housing benefits. The report found that the council was not at standard for any of the seven functional areas.

The report found evidence of the council’s commitment to improving its benefits administration as it had increased the numbers of staff
working in this area. However, this increased commitment needed to be directed by a clear vision for the Benefits service supported by
formal policies and clearly communicated targets.