Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Befefit fraud is theft, plain and simple.

A Westbury man has been ordered to pay back over £3,000 to Wiltshire Council and been sentenced to an 18 month conditional discharge after pleading guilty to benefit fraud.

Michael Delaney, 53 of Mariners Court, Westbury pleaded guilty to two charges of benefit fraud at Chippenham Magistrates Court on Tuesday March 13.

The court heard that Delaney received over £3,061.47 in housing and council tax benefits that he was not entitled to after failing to tell Wiltshire Council that he had returned to work. Mr Delaney had made a joint claim with his partner when he lived at Laurel Grove, Trowbridge and received housing benefit and council tax benefit.

However, an investigation later showed that Delaney had started work in July 2010, doing 40 hours a week, which he failed to declare to the council. Further checks revealed that Mr Delaney’s Working Tax credit had also increased but this was not declared.

Mr. Delaney’s benefit was stopped when his undeclared work was identified in February 2011. He moved to Westbury in June that year.

He admitted in court that failing to declare his change in circumstance was his own fault but it was through negligence rather than dishonesty.

Mr. Delaney was ordered to repay the debt and to pay £100 towards costs. He also received an 18 month conditional discharge for the offences.

It is always the responsibility of the person claiming benefit to tell the council of any changes in circumstances which may affect their benefits entitlement. If there is any doubt, then the council is very happy to discuss any issues.

To report a change in circumstances or for advice people can call 0300 456 0110.

The council is keen to stamp out benefit fraud and will take action against those found to be cheating the system. Anyone who has information that can help catch a benefit cheat, can call Wiltshire Council’s confidential hotline on 01249 706256 or the National Fraud Hotline on 0800 854440. Benefit fraud can also be reported on the council’s website www.wiltshire.gov.uk/benefitfraud

People reporting suspected benefit fraud do not have to leave their name or address and can be assured of complete confidentiality.