Communities Minister has said a £60million fall in
benefit fraud last year shows his zero-tolerance approach is
working.
Annual results show that in 2025, benefit fraud dropped to
£170.9million compared to £233million in 2024. This represents an
estimated 1.7% of total benefit expenditure, compared to 2.5% in
2024.
Public referrals of fraud also increased by 25% compared to the
same period last year.
Minister Lyons said: I make no apology for taking a
zero-tolerance approach to benefit fraud.
Fraud is not a victimless crime. Individuals who cheat the system
are taking support from those who need it most family, friends
and neighbours.
Rates of fraud, however, remain too high and we can't be
complacent. While the reduction in fraud and error is a
welcome development, it would be imprudent to expect this trend
to continue without sustained efforts and investment into the
Department's counter fraud and error activity.
Last year, I announced the reintroduction of the practice of
naming those who have been convicted of benefit fraud. This level
of transparency is crucial in helping to deter those who may
consider committing fraud and demonstrates my unstinting
commitment to protect resources intended for those in genuine
need.
Minister Lyons said discussions are ongoing with HM Treasury over
the potential sharing of savings from tackling benefit fraud and
error with the Executive.
The Minister said: I will continue to seek Executive support for
the investment required which will allow us to reinvest the share
of savings generated to programmes that support people with
barriers to employment, particularly those with disabilities or
health conditions.
This is a key priority for me; it aligns with Programme for
Government goals to reduce economic inactivity, tackle poverty
and social exclusion, and support inclusive economic growth
across Northern Ireland.
Notes to editors:
- Fraud and error figures for 2025 are available by contact the
DfC press office via email: press.office@communities-ni.gov.uk.
- The figures were laid in the Assembly on 1 July as part of
the Department for Communities' annual accounts.
