POLICY STATEMENT OF LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ON FRAUD AND CORRUPTION

1.  For the purpose of this statement and the Anti Fraud and Corruption Strategy the following definitions apply:-

2.  The County Council fully recognises its responsibility for spending public money and holding public assets.  The prevention, and if necessary the investigation, of fraud and corruption is therefore seen as an important aspect of its duties which it is committed to undertake.  The procedures and also the culture of the County Council are recognised as important in ensuring a high standard of public life.

3.  The County Council recognises its duty to provide leadership and guidance on the prevention of fraud and corruption.  It will therefore have an Anti Fraud and Corruption Strategy to support individual requirements included in documents such as Standing Orders and Financial Instructions.

4.  The County Council's general belief and expectation is that those associated with it (employees, members, school governors, service users, contractors and voluntary bodies) will act with honesty and integrity.  In particular members and employees will lead by example and will be accountable for their actions.

5.  The County Council recognises however that it must guard itself against the possibility of fraud and corruption. To this end it will devise systems and take specific measures that reduce its risk.  In taking such measures however due regard will be taken of the legal rights of individuals.

6.  At the same time the County Council also recognises that the people associated with the Authority particularly its employees, can make a significant contribution to the prevention of fraud and corruption.  It will therefore seek to raise the awareness of employees about fraud and corruption and how to report or pass on concerns.

7.  The County Council will ensure that the rights of people raising legitimate concerns are properly protected.

8.  The County Council will seek to follow up legitimate concerns about possible fraud and corruption regardless of who may be involved.  It will seek to prosecute cases of fraud and corruption unless the relevant Chief Officer considers it inappropriate to do so.  In such cases the Chief Officer will seek advice from the County Solicitor and where financial irregularities have occurred, the Director of Resources.  Where employees are involved, they will be subject to the County Council's disciplinary procedures.

9.  Where cases have been proven, the County Council will seek compensation for losses that it has incurred.