Counter Fraud Policy
The Highland Council Counter Fraud Policy sets out how the Council works to prevent, detect, and respond to fraud, theft, bribery, and corruption. It aims to protect public funds and ensure that resources are used properly and ethically. The policy applies to all Council employees, Members, contractors, suppliers, service users, and partner organisations.
The Council is committed to creating a strong anti-fraud culture and expects high standards of conduct from everyone it works with. It outlines clear responsibilities for staff and Members, and provides guidance on how to report suspected fraud or wrongdoing, either directly or anonymously, through dedicated channels including a hotline and online forms.
The policy also explains how fraud risks are identified and managed, and how investigations are carried out by the Corporate Fraud Team. Where necessary, disciplinary action or legal proceedings may follow. The Council works with external bodies such as Police Scotland, the Department for Work and Pensions, and Audit Scotland to support investigations and share information.
Training and awareness are key parts of the policy, ensuring staff understand their role in preventing fraud. The policy is reviewed regularly and updated to reflect changes in legislation, procedures, and Council structures.