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Fraudulent Behaviour could Land you in Prison

Every year false benefit claims cost the country millions of pounds - money that should be directed to those in genuine need.

Housing and council tax benefit totalling  £10834.86 was fraudulently claimed by Mrs. Helen Watts  formerly of Oxford Way, Wellesbourne, Mrs Watts falsely claimed benefit for a rented property by not declaring all of her income over a 6 month period to Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

Following co-operation between Stratford and Basingstoke Councils, Basingstoke Magistrates' Court handed down a 250 hour Community Order for unpaid work to be served in the community, plus £282.50 costs to Stratford-on-Avon District Council observing; "this is a serious offence...."

Mrs. Watts was of previous good character, a first-time offender, and pleaded 'guilty' to the charges, and has repaid the Councils concerned in full for accepting more benefit than she was entitled to and co-operated with the enquiry. With all of these factors taken into consideration, the court felt that a Community Order was more suitable, especially as she had dependent children at home.

Stratford District Council reinforces its message that, where appropriate, Housing Benefit offences will be prosecuted.

Contact details

For further details contact
Neil Shadbolt, Counter Fraud Officer
Stratford-on-Avon District Council
Elizabeth House,
Church Street,
Stratford-upon-Avon,
Warwickshire,
CV37 6HX

neil.shadbolt@stratford-dc.gov.uk
Tel: 01789 260486

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