Oxford City Council’s Investigation Service has scooped the 2025 Innovation in Fraud Prevention Award.
The award was presented at the Public Sector Counter Fraud Conference in Westminster, an annual event that brings together around 800 delegates from central government, local government and the NHS.
The conference featured speaker sessions, networking opportunities, a trade stand exhibition. It culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Public Sector Counter Fraud Awards.
Throughout the day, the Oxford Investigation Service was actively involved in the exhibition where they showcased innovative approaches to tackling fraud in the public sector.
During the evening awards event, the team was honoured to be named finalists in the Innovation in Fraud Prevention category. Competition was fierce, with strong contenders including teams from the Department for Work and Pensions, Network Rail, and the Department for Transport. However, the Oxford Counter Fraud Team emerged as the winners, taking to the stage to accept the esteemed award.
Adding to the evening’s achievements, Investigation Service Manager Scott Warner was shortlisted individually in the Outstanding Leadership category, following nominations from team members for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the field.
Comment
“This recognition reflects the City Council’s commitment to preventing and uncovering fraud and protecting the public purse. Our Investigation Service, with its long-standing commitment to excellence, has a track record of receiving accolades from various awarding bodies. Their ongoing innovation and high-profile results continue to showcase the team’s expertise, professionalism, and dedication to combating fraud.”
Scott Warner, Investigation Service Manager
The Public Sector Counter Fraud Awards, now in their fifth year, celebrate excellence in counter-fraud initiatives across the public sector. They serve as a platform to recognise individuals and teams who have demonstrated innovation, dedication, and teamwork in the national fight against fraud.
The Innovation in Fraud Prevention Award specifically honours initiatives that have effectively identified and addressed fraud risks, showcasing measurable impact in preventing fraudulent activity against the public sector. To qualify, nominees must have:
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successfully implemented new fraud prevention measures that protect public sector resources.
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demonstrated clear benefits and measurable impact from their prevention work.
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applied innovative approaches or repurposed existing tools in new and effective ways.
The Oxford Investigation Service remains committed to upholding the highest standards in fraud prevention and will continue to drive forward initiatives that safeguard public funds. This award reinforces their position as leaders in the fight against fraud, ensuring integrity and accountability across the sector.