Laura Cunningham, 34, has been handed a suspended jail term at Sheffield Crown Court for defrauding the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of £32,000 in Universal Credit. She admitted to a single count of fraud after concealing that she was living with her partner, falsely claiming to be a single mother living alone with her children.
How the fraud was uncovered
The DWP began investigating Cunningham in 2024 when they questioned why her partner appeared to be residing at her address on a permanent basis. Investigators also noted two vehicles parked in her driveway, both registered in her partner's name. When questioned, Cunningham claimed her partner "sometimes stayed" at the property and cancelled her Universal Credit claim that evening, selecting "no reason" for the cancellation. However, DWP investigators had already gathered evidence through surveillance of her home and social media checks.
Court proceedings and sentence
Recorder Mr Harry Vann told Cunningham: "This is a very serious matter, as you are clearly aware, involving deceit of £32,000 in benefit fraud from the taxpayers of this country." He added: "From today, you must stay out of trouble, as you have done so until this point." Cunningham wept in the dock as she was sentenced to six months' imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.
Minister's warning
Minister for Transformation Andrew Western said: "The message is clear don't think you can steal from hardworking taxpayers." He added: "Whatever your reasons for committing benefit fraud, know that our investigators are wise to every trick in the book and we will find you. And if you know somebody is fleecing the system, report it."
