Anti Fraud, Corruption, and Bribery Policy and Strategy

This document sets out the non-tolerance position held by South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council on fraud, corruption and bribery.

Training and Publicity

8.1 The Councils recognise that the continuing success of its Anti Fraud, Corruption and Bribery Policy and Strategy and its general credibility will depend largely on the effectiveness of programmed training and responsiveness of staff throughout the organisation through publication.

Training

8.2 It is, therefore, apparent that all staff involved in fraud work should be properly and regularly trained in all aspects of it. The training plans of all relevant staff, produced annually as part of the Councils' appraisal system, will reflect this requirement and include both internal and externally training provision. Such training will be tailored to the needs of the individual staff member concerned, and is therefore dependent upon knowledge and experience.

8.3 The Councils support the concept of induction and subsequent training for all staff in this area, but particularly for staff involved in internal control systems to ensure that their responsibilities and duties are regularly highlighted and reinforced. This can be linked with training and awareness of other key documents such as the Confidential Reporting Policy and Anti-Money Laundering Procedures.

8.4 The possibility of disciplinary action against staff that ignore such training and guidance is clear.

Publicity

8.5 Methods of publication of the Strategy and Response Plan will be sought, with the clear goal of ensuring that all staff are aware of the zero tolerance culture and targeting those officers in areas of high risk of fraud loss.

  • The Councils' Website;
  • Externally through the Councils' community publications;
  • The Councils' Intranet;
  • Member's Bulletin or equivalent;
  • Promotional sessions at section team meetings;
  • Flyer on Notice Boards or accompanying payslips; and
  • Occasional reminder e-mails to all staff and members.