Wem resident prosecuted for benefit fraud

Gladys Woods from Wem claimed housing benefit and council tax benefit, but failed to report an increase in her pay to Shropshire Council. Between 2 October 2006 and 8 July 2012 she benefited from over £6,500 to which she was not entitled.

Mrs Woods pleaded guilty to the offence and the Magistrates Court sentenced her to a 12- month Conditional Discharge, and ordered her to pay £150 costs to Shropshire Council. Mrs Woods will also be liable to pay back the monies that she was not entitled to.

Frances Darling, Shropshire Council’s service manager for safer and stronger communities within public protection, said:

“It is the responsibility of people claiming housing benefit and council tax benefit to declare any income or earnings to the council, plus any other changes to their circumstances. Where people fail to do this, the council will investigate the matter and will require the money to be repaid. In addition, we will not hesitate to prosecute where this is appropriate.”

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for public protection, added:

“Claimants need to be aware that benefit fraud will not be tolerated in Shropshire. We have a duty to protect the public purse and to ensure that those members of our community who genuinely need financial assistance through the benefit system have the help and support they need. Claimants who obtain benefits that they are not entitled to undermine the efficiency and effectiveness of the welfare benefit system. I strongly urge all claimants to provide the benefits service with accurate claim information at all times, and to promptly provide any changes to their circumstances that may affect their entitlement to benefits.”