Kerry St John of Alan Way was receiving Income Support, Housing Benefit and Council Tax benefit at a previous address in North Orbital Road, Denham on the basis that she was a lone parent. A joint investigation between South Bucks District Council and the Department for Work and Pensions was undertaken, after allegations were made that she was not living alone.

As a result, evidence was obtained that Miss St John's partner had moved in with her and had worked during the period that benefit was in payment. The total overpayment for Income Support was £5,172.95 while she was overpaid £6,828.40 for Housing Benefit and £1,506.96 for Council Tax Benefit.

Anti-Fraud Minister James Plaskitt said, 'Benefit thieves should understand that they can't get away with it. The DWP and local authorities work together. We operate a united front against benefit cheats and we are now catching record numbers.

South Bucks District Councillor Julian Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Resources said 'This is an excellent example of how the investigators from both South Bucks District Council and the Department for Work and Pensions can join forces and use their combined resources to crack down on benefit cheats in the District. This Council will not tolerate abuse of the benefit system'.

If you suspect benefit fraud is being committed call South Bucks District Council's confidential reporting hotline on 0800 328 6340 or email fraud@southbucks.gov.uk in confidence. A reporting form is also available by selecting this link.

ends.

Publication date: 30 June 2008