The National Fraud Initiative (NFI) began in 1996, and now runs every two years. It helps participants from local government, central government and the NHS to identify fraud and error.

Since 1996 over £11.5 million of fraudulent and erroneous payment have been detected in Wales. These include housing benefit, pension and student loan payments. Nearly 70 public sector organisations in Wales participate in the NFI.

NFI 2006/2007 identified fraudulent and erroneous payments with a value of £4.5 million and resulted in 26 successful prosecutions. The Auditor General's report "National Fraud Initiative in Wales 2006/2007: Summary of Findings" provides an overview of the outcomes and includes case studies illustrating the types of fraud and error overpayments found.

For further information contact Kate Febry (WAO NFI Co-ordinator) on 029 2032 0616.

The WAO's NFI leaflet and powerpoint presentation provide a brief summary of the purpose and benefits of participation in the NFI.