Fraud committed against the NHS in Scotland costs millions each year and means vital patient care resources are lost.
NHS Lanarkshire, along with all other NHS Scotland boards, is turning the spotlight on this type of crime during International Fraud Awareness Week 2025, commonly known as FraudWeek (16-22 November).
“With the help of NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services, FraudWeek aims to reduce the impact and instances of fraud by raising the profile of this type of crime,” explained Michael McLuskey, NHS Lanarkshire Interim Director of Finance, who is also our Counter Fraud Champion.
Michael added: “My goal is to ensure that colleagues are fully aware of fraud, bribery and corruption and its impact on the public purse. We know that there will always be a small number of people in the NHS who will commit fraud and these actions are totally unacceptable.
“By being vigilant, knowing the signs of fraud and feeling able to speak up, we can all help to stop this crime.”
This year the focus is on the seven principles of public life – the Nolan Principles:
- Selflessness
- Integrity
- Objectivity
- Accountability
- Openness
- Honesty
- Leadership
These principles guide public office holders to act in the public interest, providing a framework for ethical conduct and accountability, and are embedded in codes of conduct and standards for public service.
To report fraud or suspected fraud, please contact Morag Holmes, Fraud Liaison Officer, Morag.Holmes@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk. Morag will be hosting an information stand at Choices restaurant, University Hospital Monklands, on 18 November from 9am to 3pm.
Alternatively, call 08000 151628 or visit www.cfs.scot.nhs.uk to report it anonymously via CrimeStoppers.
You can also speak up about fraud by using NHS Lanarkshire’s Whistleblowing policy.
- NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services is running a survey with three quick questions. If you’d like to take part click here.
- For full information on FraudWeek see FraudWeek 2025.
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