Benefit cheat falsely claimed over £27k

A Heywood benefit cheat who falsely claimed more than £27,000 has been given a suspended prison sentence. Eileen Smith, 48, admitted making false claims for Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Incapacity Benefit over a ten year period.

At Bolton Crown Court she was given a 39-week prison sentence, suspended for two years – and also ordered to attend a ‘Think First’ programme.

Smith’s dishonesty was discovered thanks to a data-match system that showed she had been working but not declaring her earnings. A joint investigation between Rochdale Borough Council and the Department for Work and Pensions found that she had claimed Housing and Council Tax Benefit and Incapacity Benefit for years, stating that she was unfit for work when in fact she had worked in various care homes since 1997.

Smith - of Downham Road, Heywood - pleaded guilty and will also have to repay the £27,895 in full.

Councillor Greg Couzens, cabinet member for finance on Rochdale Borough Council, said: “This prosecution sends a strong message to anyone who may be attempting to cheat the benefit system. Our fraud investigation team will always work closely with colleagues at the DWP, and those who make false claims will be found out and prosecuted.

“By taking part in initiatives like the Government’s ‘No Ifs, No Buts’ campaign we will continue to ensure that only those people entitled to benefits receive them. If you know of someone committing benefit fraud, you can report it free by calling 0800 328 6340 or contact the Fraud Team directly on 01706 926100.”