In-line with our own Anti-Fraud and Corruption Strategy we participate in the Cabinet Office’s National Fraud Initiative a data matching exercise to assist in the prevention and detection of fraud. We are required to provide particular sheets of data to the Minister for the Cabinet Office for matching for each exercise. Examples of data supplied include property addresses regarding Council Tax payments.

Data matching by the Cabinet Office is subject to a Code of Practice.

Data matching involves comparing computer records held by one body against other computer records held by the same or another body to see how far they match and enables potentially fraudulent claims and payments to be identified.

No assumption can be made whether there is fraud, error or other explanation until an investigation is carried out.

The use of data by the Cabinet Office in a data matching exercise is carried out with statutory authority under Part 6 of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 and is permitted under data protection laws without the need of consent from individuals.

The National Fraud Initiative privacy notice explains how your data is used and your rights.

For further information on data matching, please contact John Oakley, Borough Solicitor by email at John.Oakley@stevenage.gov.uk.