Qualitative research into the behavioural impact of the penalties regime for benefit fraud and error
This report explores how DWP’s current penalties regime influences the thoughts and behaviours of people who commit welfare fraud and error.
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Research background
This report was commissioned to investigate the influence of penalties and the threat of criminal prosecution on behaviour, how potential changes to the penalties regime may have an effect on claimant behaviour and deterrence, and the impact of the punitive approach both before and after an individual has committed fraud and error.
Contribution to the evidence base
The fraud and error landscape has evolved considerably in the last ten years. This report contributes to building an up-to-date, detailed understanding of the behavioural impacts of the current penalties regime in deterring fraud and error.
Research value
This report provides insights into how to better deter fraud and limit recidivism. These insights support DWP to understand how robust the processes underpinning the penalties regime are and how they can be most effectively targeted to maximise deterrence.