To bolster fraud prevention, the Action Fraud National Economic Crime Victim Care Unit (NECVCU) is now available to all 43 police forces. The City of London Police (CoLP), renowned for leading the national effort against fraud, administers this unit.
The broader reach of the NECVCU is a testament to its critical role in the national fraud prevention strategy. The unit’s consistent performance and its substantial impact on reducing victimhood and enhancing protective measures against fraud have been pivotal in promoting its expansion.
The key aim is to intensify the national fight against fraud, focusing on prevention, support, and recovery. This marks a new chapter in the national anti-fraud initiative, emphasising the unity and collaboration between police forces to reduce the impacts of fraud on society.
The Crucial Role of NECVCU in Fraud Victim Support
Since its inception, the NECVCU has successfully interacted with 349,322 victims, saving an estimated £2,882,616 from potential fraud losses. In the financial year from April 2022 to March 2023 alone, the unit offered support and guidance to 113,356 victims of fraud and cybercrime.
The CoLP Assistant Commissioner, Pete O’Doherty, holds the NECVCU in high regard. He emphasises its integral role in providing specialist advice to victims, often at their most vulnerable stage, thereby empowering them to bounce back from any issues brought on by becoming a victim of fraud. He commends the NECVCU for preventing countless victims from being subjected to fraud again and notes the unit’s tireless efforts to support victims.
Aiming for Safer, More Confident Fraud Victims
The NECVCU aims to help fraud victims feel safer and more confident after their encounters with fraud. Trained advocates provide personalised advice, aiding victims to cope and recover from their experiences. They also help reduce the chances of repeat victimisation by offering preventative advice and support.
Backed by the Home Office, the NECVCU has interacted with 349,322 victims since 2018 (as of 25 July 2023). Out of these, only 152 were recorded as repeat victims. The unit successfully stopped 181 people from becoming repeat victims, thus saving an estimated £2,882,616 from potential fraud. Additionally, since January 2021, the NECVCU has assisted 108 victims in recovering a total of £2,965,062.
Security Minister, Tom Tugendhat, acknowledges the instrumental role of the NECVCU in the government’s broader crime-fighting strategy. He notes that fraud causes not just financial losses but can also shatter victims’ confidence and cause extreme stress, emphasising the importance of top-tier care and support for victims.
The NECVCU’s Two-Tiered Support System
The NECVCU offers a two-tiered support system to all 43 police forces. The level one service provides appropriate support for less complicated cases, providing protective advice and referrals to local services. The level two service caters to complex cases, connecting victims with resources such as the NHS and social services.
Pauline Smith, Director of Action Fraud, lauds the NECVCU for its outstanding service to victims across the country. James Thomson, Chair of the Police Authority Board, emphasises the importance of ensuring that victims do not fall prey to fraud again.
Acknowledging Contributions: Awards and Partnerships
The NECVCU’s commendable work has been recognised at the 2021 and 2022 Tackling Economic Crime Awards. Moreover, a partnership with Lloyds Banking Group will provide an additional £7 million in funding for fraud prevention and victim support initiatives drawn from seized proceeds of crime.
The innovative approach of utilising funds derived from the proceeds of crime to bolster fraud prevention initiatives is praiseworthy. Each year, law enforcement agencies seize millions of pounds from fraudsters and other criminals. The decision to use these resources to reinforce fraud prevention efforts and assist those unfortunate enough to become victims is fitting. This initiative is highly impactful, warranting increased emphasis and expansion in the future.
