Project WISE launched to tackle fraud in National Health Service

The NHSCFA estimates that £1.346 billion of NHS funding is vulnerable to loss through fraud, bribery and corruption. That’s equivalent to 0.72% of the NHS budget for 2024-2025. Project WISE forms part of a wider national effort orchestrated to reduce this vulnerability by improving the early detection and prevention of fraud across NHS systems.

The pilot is being delivered in partnership with five NHS Trusts in the South East and South West: the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust and Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust.

Project WISE will test how advanced analytical models and machine learning tools from the NHSCFA’s Project Athena Programme can be applied at a local level to identify anomalies and patterns that may indicate fraud.

The pilot will analyse both local and national data sets, generate intelligence from data outliers, support local counter fraud teams through NHSCFA expertise and resources and assess Return on Investment to inform a potential national adoption.

By working collaboratively, participating NHS Trusts will share insights and Best Practice to help reinforce local and regional counter fraud capability. The project aims to improve transparency, strengthen system controls and support a co-ordinated approach to fraud detection and prevention across the NHS.

Collaborative approach

Alex Rothwell, CEO at the NHSCFA, said: “Project WISE represents a proactive and collaborative approach to tackling NHS fraud head-on. By understanding and quantifying fraud risks, we can see the bigger picture, recognising patterns of behaviour and targeting action where it’s needed most, reducing vulnerabilities and strengthening the resilience of NHS systems.”

Colin Edwards, local counter fraud and security specialist at the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board, explained: “As an NHS counter fraud professional, I’m proud to contribute to the WISE initiative. It’s a proactive step in protecting the integrity of our health services and the care upon which our patients rely. By combining advanced analytics with local expertise, we’re turning intelligence into meaningful action that strengthens trust, accountability and efficiency across the health sector.”

Edwards added: “WISE brings together innovation, collaboration and a shared commitment to tackling fraud in a smarter and more co-ordinated way. I’m inspired to be part of a project that will deliver real impact by protecting resources, supporting colleagues and safeguarding patients.”

In the next phase of the pilot, the NHSCFA will publish a suite of fraud prevention materials for NHS teams. These resources will draw on real-life examples to highlight lessons learned and outline practical steps for strengthening local controls and preventing fraud.