DWP introduces laws targeting financial assistance fraud

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced new laws to penalize individuals who fraudulently receive "non-benefit payments." These payments are financial assistance not classified as social security benefits, such as those from the kickstart scheme. DWP Minister Andrew Western stated that the new measures will allow for administrative penalties instead of mandatory prosecution for fraud cases. This aims to streamline the process and provide options for first-time offenders or low-value fraud cases. Additionally, the DWP will have the authority to directly deduct funds from individuals' bank accounts if they owe money, after providing at least 28 days' notice. Investigators must also review bank statements to confirm the individual can pay the owed amount.