New funding rules have been introduced to help training providers prevent fraud in government-funded training programmes. Employers play a vital role in stopping fraud from entering apprenticeships and similar vocational training programmes. A new ‘failure to prevent fraud’ law makes larger companies criminally responsible if employees or anyone closely connected to the business falsifies records or cheats to benefit the company.
While small and mid-sized employers might not be targeted yet, everyone needs to play their part in helping training providers to stay vigilant. Apprenticeship funding bodies are actively monitoring fraud risks, which can include things like faking apprentice details or recording false training evidence.
The Government’s Six Golden Rules for Fraud Prevention
To stay ahead of the fraudsters, we must all embrace these top tips:
- Take Responsibility: Salon owners need to make it crystal clear that fraud must be reported and to make it easier by creating a friendly space for apprentices and team members to raise alarms.
- Risk Assess: identify potential fraud-risk areas in your business—payroll, data, contracts—these are typical areas, but don’t neglect areas such as signing off fake apprentice attendance sheets.
- Spread the Word: Keep everyone in your team updated with regular fraud awareness training—spotting red flags and knowing who to report concerns to.
- Stay Alert: Fraud prevention isn’t a one-off—monitor, review, and review your approach regularly.
What Cheynes Training is Doing
- We are reviewing and updating our anti-fraud and whistleblowing policies.
- We are making sure apprenticeship agreements are ‘zero tolerant’ regarding incorrect information.
- We are double-checking all apprentice information before sending it off for funding.
- We are ensuring all off-the-job training records are completed and correctly signed off.
- We are training our teams to spot unusual activity and encouraging a “speak up” culture.
- We are keeping meticulous records of all our fraud prevention efforts and follow-ups.
By sticking to the new government guidance, Cheynes Training is not just staying compliant, we are maintaining a safe, trustworthy place for young talent to develop and thrive. Employers can help by reporting any concerns regarding apprenticeship records to info@cheynestraining.com