This week is International Fraud Awareness Week. We've been speaking to our local counter fraud specialist, Shaun Fleming, and getting to know a bit more about him and why he wanted to work in counter fraud.

How did you get into Counter Fraud?

I’ve been in the NHS for more than 30 years. I was originally an internal auditor, but when the NHS Counter Fraud Service was launched in 2000, I thought that looked much more interesting and did fancy myself as a bit of a Poirot! Of course the role is much wider than just investigations, as we also deliver a comprehensive counter fraud package, which includes fraud awareness and proactive prevention work.

Have you ever been scammed?

I haven’t been scammed personally (that would be too embarrassing), but like everyone else I do get regular scam emails to work and personal accounts and devices.  Some are so good they make me think initially, but it's always good to be an arch sceptic! 

What's the most unusual scam you've come across?

The most unusual scams we encounter are probably the ‘romance’ type frauds that are in the news – my best advice is don’t trust anything or anyone.

Why is it important to learn more about Fraud Awareness Week?

International Fraud Awareness Week (17th - 23rd November) is just one of a raft of NHS-related fraud awareness initiatives that we run. It's important that staff are constantly reminded about the dangers of fraud in both their personal and work-related environments, so that they aren’t defrauded themselves or the NHS itself becomes a victim.  All NHS resources lost to fraud is funding that is lost to patient care.

This year, the Audit Yorkshire Counter Fraud team is focusing on helping people understand fraud risks they might encounter at home. Alongside that, the team are offering Everyday Fraud in the UK masterclasses. These are running today, Monday 18th of November at 2pm and this coming Friday 22nd of November at 10am. To book a place, email: yhs-tr.counterfraudyork@nhs.net 

If you have any concerns about NHS fraud, then Shaun can be contacted on shaunfleming@nhs.net

Alternatively, concerns can also be reported to the NHS Counter Fraud Authority by calling 0800 028 40 60, or via the website: https://cfa.nhs.uk/reportfraud

November's Counter Fraud Newsletter can be read below.