Latest news with #CodesofPractice
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mirror
DWP date confirmed for bank 'monitoring' in list of tough new measures
The UK Government has unveiled the biggest fraud crackdown in a generation - and new factsheets published by the DWP contain details of how the proposals will be implemented The UK Government is embarking on 'the biggest fraud crackdown in a generation' to slash losses within the welfare system. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) estimates that the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill will generate savings of £1.5 billion for taxpayers over the coming five years. New measures include driving bans of up to two years for benefit fraudsters who persistently refuse to repay outstanding debts, powers enabling the DWP to seize funds directly from offenders' bank accounts, and Eligibility Verification, allowing third-party bodies like banks to flag potentially fraudulent benefit applications. A series of 11 newly published factsheets from the DWP, providing greater insight into how these measures will function securely with proper oversight, confirms the UK Government intends to introduce the proposed changes from April 2026, reports the Daily Record. The factsheets also include information on safeguards, reporting mechanisms and supervision crafted to ensure the "appropriate, proportionate, and effective use of the powers." Official guidance states: "The Government will begin implementing the Bill measures from 2026. "For the Eligibility Verification Measure, the Government will implement a 'test and learn' approach to ensure the new powers to tackle public sector fraud are being used proportionally and effectively. DWP and the Cabinet Office will continue to work with industry to implement the new measures, consult stakeholders on Codes of Practice and publish guidance." The DWP will also gain powers to collect data from additional third-party organisations such as airlines to check whether individuals are receiving benefits from overseas, potentially violating eligibility requirements. Eligibility Verification Measure The DWP will not have direct access to the bank accounts of millions of people on means-tested benefits including Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Employment and Support Allowance. The department will work alongside banks to pinpoint individuals who may have surpassed the eligibility thresholds for means-tested benefits, such as the £16,000 income limit for Universal Credit - and secure that information to subsequently examine that claimant to avoid potential overpayments and possible fraud cases. The legislation only allows banks and other financial institutions to share restricted data and forbids the sharing of transaction data, which means the DWP will not be able to monitor how people on benefits spend their money. Indeed, the factsheet outlines how banks and other financial institutions could face a penalty for sharing excessive information, such as transaction data. It additionally states: "Any information shared through the Eligibility Verification Measure will not be shared on the presumption or suspicion that anyone is guilty of any offence." New measures to combat fraud have been introduced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The new Bill aims to fulfil the UK Government's manifesto pledge to protect taxpayers' money, ensuring every pound is used wisely and effectively. New DWP measures to combat fraud The new Bill is designed to fulfil the UK Government's manifesto pledge to protect taxpayers' money. All the powers will include strong safeguards to ensure they are only used appropriately and proportionately - including new inspection and reporting mechanisms. DWP will have a clearly defined scope and clear limitations for the use of all the powers it is introducing, and staff will be trained to the highest possible standards. New powers of search and seizure - so DWP can control investigations into criminal gangs defrauding the taxpayer. Allowing DWP to recover debts from individuals no longer on benefits and not in PAYE employment who can pay money back but have avoided doing so. New requirements for banks and building societies to flag where there is an indication there may be a breach of eligibility rules for benefits - preventing debts accruing. This Bill aims to empower the Public Sector Fraud Authority to: Use new powers of entry, search and seizure to reduce the burdens on the police in the most serious criminal investigations. Reduce fraud against the public sector by using its expertise to take action on behalf of other departments, against those who attack the public sector. Improve fraud management in future emergencies by creating specialist time limited powers to be used in crisis management situations - building on lessons learned during COVID-19. Better detect and prevent incorrect payments across the public sector through new information gathering and sharing powers. Improve the government's ability to recover public money, through new debt recovery and enforcement powers. Use strong non-criminal sanctions and civil penalties to provide an alternative to criminal prosecution and to deter fraud. The Public Sector Fraud Authority will adopt a 'test and learn' strategy with these powers, trialling various methods and expertise to determine the most effective way to combat public sector fraud.
Daily Record
08-08-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Brazen Ayrshire carer withdraws more than £6000 from supported person's account
Caroline Nimmo took around £6,680 from the supported person's account while employed as a personal carer by East Ayrshire Council in Kilmarnock. A personal carer has been struck off by the industry watchdog for using a supported person's bank card and making withdrawals of more than £6,600. Caroline Nimmo took around £6,680 from the supported person's account while employed as a personal carer by East Ayrshire Council in Kilmarnock. And on a date, or dates, between July 2019 and around March 2022, Nimmo took the same supported person shopping with her friend out with working hours. The supported person is only known as 'AA' to protect their identity. Nimmo, it was said, also collected shopping for the same supported person and another individual, known only as 'BB'. Industry regulator, the Scottish Social Services Council, (SSSC) said Nimmo's fitness to practise was 'impaired' due to misconduct and struck her name from the register. In their notice of decision the SSSC said to Nimmo: 'Social service workers must not abuse the trust of people who use services or carers, or the access they have to personal information about them or their property, home or workplace. 'You (Nimmo) were in a trusted position as a carer to 'AA.' You have used 'AA's bank card to withdraw a significant amount of money from her account. 'There is no information to suggest that 'AA' did not have the capacity to deal with her own finances, but your behaviour placed 'AA' at risk of financial harm and is an abuse of the trust placed in you as a social service worker.' The SSSC continued: 'Social service workers must not form inappropriate relationships with people who use services or carers. You (Nimmo) have attended the home of 'AA' outwith your working hours and took her shopping with your friend. You have also gone shopping for 'AA' and 'BB.' This behaviour amounts to a failure to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with 'AA' and 'BB.'' In their factors of concern the SSSC said Nimmo had shown 'no insight' into her behaviour, that there was a risk that the behaviour could be 'repeated' and Nimmo's actions showed a 'high degree of disregard' for the Codes of Practice which indicated 'serious underlying attitudinal concerns.' The SSSC continued: 'You (Nimmo) were employed in a position of trust as a carer and you have breached the trust placed in you as a social service worker. You have demonstrated a pattern of unacceptable behaviour over a period of over one year. Your behaviour is directly linked to your employment in social services and gave rise to an increased risk of harm to 'AA.'' The SSSC said in conclusion: 'A Removal Order is the most appropriate sanction as it is both necessary and justified in the public interest and to maintain the continuing trust and confidence in the social service profession and the SSSC as the regulator of the profession.' They said in a statement: "We do not comment on individual cases to protect a person's right to privacy. We are aware of this historic incident and work closely with SSSC as a regulatory body in sharing information in line with regulatory transparency and public protection."
Travel Daily News
16-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
SATSA 's '101 Adventures' for Southern African adventure tourism
SATSA launched new adventure tourism toolkits and Codes of Practice, enhancing safety standards and supporting industry growth across Southern Africa. DURBAN – SATSA has launched a new toolkit and five category-specific Codes of Good Practice, marking another milestone in the industry's journey towards global best practices and enhanced safety standards. 'SATSA's first set of guidelines was released in 2023,' says Hannelie du Toit, SATSA COO. 'It introduced a new level of compliance in a sector that was, at that point, largely unregulated. Today's launch gives more adventure operators the tools they need to meet international safety standards – and visitors peace of mind when they're booking adventures and activities.' The new resources, which are being shared publicly for the first time at Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 – and live on SATSA's website – cover five important categories: Aerial Non-Flight Activities (including zip lines, rope courses, canopy tours, and suspension bridges) Wheel-Based Activities (including mountain biking, BMX, skateboarding, ATVs, quad biking, and off-road motorcycling) Boat-Based Activities (including whale watching, shark cage diving and other marine-based activities) Paddling & Rafting Activities (on flat water, flowing water and oceans, including rafts, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards) Hiking & Trekking Activities (from short day walks to multi-day expeditions) These documents are open to public comment and are intended to spark dialogue, encourage industry input, and ensure broad-based ownership of the standards that will define the future of Southern Africa's adventure tourism. A Risk, Safety and Incident Management Toolkit has also been added, broadening the arsenal of existing resources. Currently, the resource library consists of a Self-Regulation Road Map, a General Code of Good Practice Guide and Checklist, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Participant Care. First-of-its-kind self-assessment tool and updated resources In another exciting development, SATSA has introduced a Self-Assessment Tool for adventure operators in Southern Africa. Designed to measure alignment with global best practices, the tool is freely available. It provides operators with a detailed benchmark of their operations across key areas, including safety, sustainability, and operational excellence. Operators who complete the assessment will also receive tailored feedback, practical tips, and links to additional resources – all at no cost. In line with this, all SATSA adventure tourism resources have been reviewed and updated to reflect current international standards and evolving market demands. The full range of toolkits and the self-assessment tool can be accessed via the SATSA website. 'What's really exciting is the level of industry input and buy-in. Right from the very beginning in 2023, industry experts have really leaned in to offer their expertise and support, including the team at Dirty Boots, SATIB Insurance Brokers, and Nick Shaw, SATSA's Adventure Chapter Chair,' says du Toit. As du Toit explains, what makes the approach unique is its fluid, collaborative nature. The toolkits include publication and review dates, allowing for honest feedback, additional input, and ongoing updates as standards evolve and technology advances. The framework actively encourages industry feedback, creating a living document that grows with the industry. 'The new documents align with international best practice, incorporating elements from ISO standards, European standards, Australian frameworks and input from the Adventure Travel Trade Association's (ATTA) Travel Life programme,' says Nick Shaw, Adventure Chapter Chairperson. Economic impact across all regions Adventure tourism plays a crucial role in South Africa's broader tourism strategy, particularly in addressing geographic diversity, job creation, youth development, and tourism prosperity. While traditional tourism hotspots like Cape Town and Kruger National Park have recovered strongly post-pandemic, regions like the Eastern Cape, which has so much potential as an adventure destination – have lagged far behind. 'There's a reason this initiative is called '101 Adventures',' says SATSA CEO David Frost: 'While New Zealand may call itself the adventure capital of the world, South Africa offers a far more diverse range of adventure experiences with superior products – closer to 104 at last count – we just need to position ourselves better globally. These toolkits are a critical step in that direction.' Next steps Alongside the launch of the '101 Adventures Southern Africa' toolkits and self-assessment tool, SATSA is conducting a comprehensive Adventure Tourism Industry Survey to better understand the sector's size, economic contribution, and employment statistics. All adventure tourism operators are encouraged to participate by completing the survey here. A webinar scheduled for 28 May at 12:00 will guide operators through the toolkits, the self-assessment process, and how to attain certification. Regular quarterly webinars will follow, providing ongoing support and updates. 'This initiative is about positioning Southern Africa as the premier global adventure destination,' says Frost. 'We have the industry will – now we're creating a framework that will drive growth, ensure safety, and spread tourism benefits to every corner of our region.'
Daily Mirror
29-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
Cruel carer took Snapchat of vulnerable pensioner on toilet – then it went viral
Cara MacLennan, 20, was removed from her role at Eilean Dubh Care Home in Fortrose in Scotland after taking a photo of a vulnerable pensioner A cruel carer who took a photo of a vulnerable pensioner sitting on a toilet in only their pyjamas has been struck off. Cara MacLennan hid to take the photo and held up a "v" sign with her fingers during a shift at Eilean Dubh Care Home in Fortrose in the Highlands in Scotland in February last year. The 20-year-old posted the image on Snapchat alongside a caption which read "can't see me ha ha ha" and "doesn't know what I'm doing". A friend shared the image on Facebook which went viral and led to MacLennan's removal from the profession when the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) amounted her behaviour to "abuse". Daily Record reports the ruling stated: 'You have taken a selfie photograph of a resident and thereafter added derogatory remarks about her, before sending this to a friend via a social media platform. Your behaviour of sending the photograph had consequences, whereby these were posted by a third person on a public Facebook page which caused concern to the public in general. 'The first incident took place within the workplace, where you were expected to care for the resident in an appropriate manner, thus your behaviour placed the resident at the risk of emotional harm. Your behaviour therefore amounts to an abuse of trust and showed a level of disregard for the Codes of Practice and amounted to abuse of a vulnerable resident.' The panel further heard MacLennan lied on a care assistant job application. The brazen carer told her new employer she had left her previous role because she had been "offered a new job". She had, however, been sacked. MacLennan also failed to mention she was under investigation by the SSSC for the incident. The panel ruling continued: 'You were dismissed from your employment and failed to disclose the reason for this dismissal which shows a level of dishonesty and concealment. You also demonstrated a lack of integrity by not disclosing that you were subject to a SSSC investigation.' Her behaviour was described as 'extremely serious' and 'fundamentally incompatible with continuing registration'. MacLennan was banned from working in social care indefinitely. The panel added: 'The SSSC considers a Removal Order is the most appropriate sanction as it is both necessary and justified in the public interest and to maintain the continuing trust and confidence in the social service profession.' This comes after a nurse was struck off after an inquiry found she had falsified records by booking fake appointments with patients so she could clock off early. Nina Groves was found to be impaired by "reason of misconduct" by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. While working at Clee Medical Centre (CMC) in Cleethorpes, a hearing was told she had meddled with booking systems and lied about patient appointments in order to leave herself with extra free time and given out prescriptions of highly addictive, controlled medication, putting patients "at risk of harm".
Daily Record
29-04-2025
- Daily Record
Cruel carer who took Snapchat of vulnerable OAP on toilet struck off
A cruel Scots carer who mocked a vulnerable OAP after taking a photo of them on the toilet in their pyjamas has been struck off. Cara MacLennan, 20, posed beside the pensioner and held up a "v" sign with her fingers during a shift at Eilean Dubh Care Home in Fortrose in February last year. MacLennan, from Fortrose in the Highlands, posted the photo on Snapchat alongside the caption "can't see me ha ha ha" and "doesn't know what I'm doing". Her friend then shared the image onto Facebook , where it went viral. MacLennan was removed from the profession after the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) amounted her behaviour to "abuse". The ruling , which was published on Monday, stated: 'You have taken a selfie photograph of a resident and thereafter added derogatory remarks about her, before sending this to a friend via a social media platform. 'Your behaviour of sending the photograph had consequences, whereby these were posted by a third person on a public Facebook page which caused concern to the public in general. 'The first incident took place within the workplace, where you were expected to care for the resident in an appropriate manner, thus your behaviour placed the resident at the risk of emotional harm. 'Your behaviour therefore amounts to an abuse of trust and showed a level of disregard for the Codes of Practice and amounted to abuse of a vulnerable resident .' The panel further heard that MacLennan lied on a care assistant job application. The brazen carer told her new employer she had left her previous role because she had been "offered a new job". She had, however, been sacked. MacLennan also failed to mention she was under investigation by the SSSC for the incident. The panel ruling continued: 'You were dismissed from your employment and failed to disclose the reason for this dismissal which shows a level of dishonesty and concealment. You also demonstrated a lack of integrity by not disclosing that you were subject to a SSSC investigation.' Her behaviour was described as 'extremely serious' and 'fundamentally incompatible with continuing registration'. MacLennan was banned from working in social care indefinitely. The Panel added: 'The SSSC considers a Removal Order is the most appropriate sanction as it is both necessary and justified in the public interest and to maintain the continuing trust and confidence in the social service profession.'
