We are required by law to protect the public funds we administer. In order to prevent and detect fraud, we may share the information you provide with other organisations that audit or administer public funds. The Cabinet Office is responsible for carrying out data matching exercises.
Data matching involves comparing computer records held by one organisation with those held by the same or another organisation to identify the extent of any matches. These records usually contain personal information. Computerised data matching assists in identifying potentially fraudulent claims and payments. Where a match is identified, it may point to an inconsistency that needs further investigation. No conclusion can be drawn about whether this is fraud, error or another explanation until an investigation has taken place.
We participate in the Cabinet Office’s National Fraud Initiative: a data matching exercise that supports the prevention and detection of fraud – see guidance https://www.gov.uk/guidance/taking-part-in-national-fraud-initiative. We take privacy very seriously. Your data will always be handled securely and responsibly. Further details are available in the privacy notice guidance, which explains how your personal data will be used as part of the Cabinet Office’s NFI data matching exercise to support fraud prevention and detection: Privacy notice.
The Cabinet Office carries out data matching under statutory powers set out in Part 6 of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014. This processing is carried out under statutory powers and does not require the consent of individuals concerned under data protection legislation or the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).. For further details on why specific information is matched, see: Code of Data Matching Practice for the National Fraud Initiative – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
For further information on data matching at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust please contact Lydia McGrath, Local Counter Fraud Specialist, by emailing lydia.mcgrath3@nhs.net. Further information on how the NFI has assisted the NHS and other public sector organisations can also be found at National Fraud Initiative case studies – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Useful resources:
A guide to the data protection exemptions | ICO
Getting copies of your information (SAR) | ICO