In Kent, Bromley Council will be the first borough in the country to introduce a new app, which residents can use to report where they suspect fraud is being committed. It is free, secure, easy to use and completely confidential, says the council. It can also be used to provide lots of up-to-date information about different types of fraud and can alert residents to scams. The App, which is available to download from Apple and Android mobile devices, will also tell residents about fraud-related news.
The Bromley App was developed after it was judged the most innovative idea in a recent round of anti-fraud funding from the Department of Communities and Local Government. The plan is to roll out the App for use in other boroughs across the country.
Executive Councillor for Resources, Graham Arthur said: “I am delighted Bromley is the first council to launch this cutting edge anti-fraud tool. By harnessing the power of technology we can provide a quick and easy way to communicate with residents as they work with us to make sure public funds are protected and only used for those in genuine need. The introduction of more online services is one way we can make the best use of resources and save our taxpayers money. The app also clearly demonstrates the determination of Bromley Council to continue to use every source of information available to help identify cheats.”
Bromley add that it works with the Royal Borough of Greenwich to trace and prosecute fraudsters. The two boroughs have already prosecuted over 400 fraudulent cases and are investigating many more. Residents can report their suspicions by calling the Fraud Hotline on 0800 169 6975 or emailing [email protected]
Visit www.bromley.gov.uk/fraud.
