A total of 48 allegations of potential tenancy fraud were investigated in 2024-25, resulting in the return of 11 properties to the council’s housing stock. These were subsequently made available to those in genuine need of social housing.

For each of the properties identified, the calculation, according to Audit Scotland guidance, is £78,300 per property recovered - thus resulting in a saving of £861,300. According to the Counter Fraud annual report to the council’s Audit Committee, savings of £906,713 were identified during 2024-25 as a result of counter fraud activity.

Additional savings of £162,387 were also made in 2022-23 from the council’s continuing participation in the National Fraud Initiative - figures not previously issued due to the timing of the release of prior reporting.

Midlothian Council hosts a whistleblowing form for employees or members of the public looking to report a possible crime, fraud or similar concern.

People can also get in touch via a dedicated email address: corporatefraud@midlothian.gov.uk.