Over 7,000 individuals ineligible for social housing have been discovered trying to manipulate their way onto waiting lists, a recent investigation has found.
Government Initiative
Since 2020, government officials have identified £26.4 million worth of housing fraud through the Cabinet Office's National Fraud Initiative.
Benefit Cheats Uncovered
A staggering 7,392 benefit cheats were identified on council house waiting lists, with 74 ineligible individuals found to be illegally occupying social housing spaces meant for those in genuine need.
Response from Officials
Cabinet Office Minister, Baroness Neville-Rolfe, highlighted the significance of the data analysis in uncovering this fraud, emphasizing the importance of freeing up social housing for those who truly require it.
Mark Cheeseman, chief executive of the Public Sector Fraud Authority, also praised the use of advanced data analytics tools in combatting fraud and protecting taxpayers' money.
Continuing Efforts
Efforts to combat housing fraud will be expanded in the next stage of the pilot scheme, involving more local authorities and housing associations to further prevent criminal activity and safeguard public funds.
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