Change of circumstances led to £8000 bill

A Kineton-based lecturer became the subject of an investigation by Stratford-on-Avon District Council. Following a routine review, the discovery of significantly increased earnings which had not previously been declared to the District Council as required for Housing benefit purposes, came to light.

Investigations found that over a two and a half year period, earnings had increased to double that originally declared, and on which the claim had been based.

At Leamington Spa Justice Centre on 10 March 2011, Mrs Kimberley Angela Gascoyne, (45), pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to give the Council prompt notification of the change in circumstances, knowing that her benefit would have been affected.  This failure to properly attend to her claim circumstances led directly to the overpayment, a situation Mrs Gascoyne regretted.

Defending Mrs Gascoyne, David Tandy of Penmans Solicitors, accepted the overpayment, and cited Mrs Gascoyne's value as a lecturer at Cherwell College, previous good character, and early guilty plea.  At Court, Mrs Gascoyne also offered full repayment of almost £8,000 and arrangements have been made with the District Council for her to do so.

Mrs Gascoyne was given a conditional discharge of 6 months and ordered that she pay a contribution to costs of £100.

Cllr Valarie Hobbs, Business, Housing and Revenues Portfolio says: "Benefit fraud is a serious crime, and anyone caught runs the risk of being sent to prison, as well as having to repay any stolen money. We rely on the public to do the right thing and tell us if they suspect benefit fraud. In this case a large amount of taxpayer's money was being stolen."

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is committed to paying Housing & Council Tax Benefits to only those with a genuine entitlement, and is committed to fighting fraud.  If you wish to report a suspected fraud you can contact the District Council via our fraud hotline on 01789 260486 or via email to fraud@stratford-dc.gov.uk

Alternatively, you can ring the National Benefit Fraud Hotline on (0800) 328 6340 – Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 6.30pm (The information will be passed to investigators in the appropriate local authority.)

All information will be treated in confidence.