Financial Assistance launches anonymous hotline

In an effort to curtail the misuse of Government’s subsidized financial support, the Department of Financial Assistance has established an Anonymous Hotline to report misuse, abuse or fraud. The Anonymous Hotline is 297-STOP (7867). The Department is asking for public support by reporting Financial Assistance clients who may be misusing or abusing the system. All calls and messages will be investigated by the Department’s Investigative Officers.

Minister of Community, Culture and Sports, the Hon R. Wayne Scott, JP, MP stated, “Staff at the Department of Financial Assistance is consistently being questioned by members of the public who know or suspect clients of abusing our support and services. With so many people in genuine need of Financial Assistance, we must be prudent with the management of Financial Assistance budget. We are committed to stopping people from feeling they can get away with fraud. Clients and the Department have an equal share in making sure that those who need receive the support and those who are misusing the system are caught.”

Minister Scott added, “As I announced last month, we have seen an unprecedented increase in financial assistance and child day care relief such that, between January and October 2013, this Government spent in excess of $36 million on assistance. We will continue to address these concerns by implementing procedures and policies to maintain the integrity of the Department.”

The Hotline is managed by an Automated Message Centre, so the caller is strictly anonymous.  Calls can be accepted seven days a week and operates continuously.

The Department wishes to thank persons, in advance, who furnish information and reiterates that confidentiality is appreciated and respected. 

Call 297-STOP or 297-7867 to report Financial Assistance misuse, abuse, or fraud.