Mum Sentenced for £75,000 Benefits Fraud After False Homelessness Claim
A mother from Salford has received a suspended prison sentence after fraudulently obtaining more than £75,000 in benefits overpayments by claiming her partner was homeless following their breakup, while they continued to live together and enjoy holidays.
Details of the Fraudulent Claims
Kelly Clews, 41, pleaded guilty to five counts of fraud by false representation at Manchester Crown Court. Between 2018 and 2023, she claimed multiple benefits, including over £42,420 in Universal Credit, £8,097 in housing benefits, £9,500 in income support, £12,850 in tax credits, and a £2,207 council tax reduction from Salford council. Prosecutors noted that some of her partner Matthew Corbett's earnings were deposited into her bank account, and the couple took trips to Pontins during this period.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
During the hearing, Clews stared at the floor as Judge Sarah Johnston handed her a 48-week sentence, suspended for 18 months. The judge cited Clews' personal circumstances, including mental ill-health and care-giving duties, as reasons for not imposing immediate imprisonment. Clews must complete eight rehabilitation activity requirement days, a 12-month mental health treatment programme, and 60 hours of unpaid work.
False Statements and Investigation
In an interview with Department for Work and Pensions officers in January 2024, Clews admitted she was aware of the requirement to report changes in her circumstances. She falsely claimed that Corbett was homeless and only visited regularly, despite him being registered at her address with a GP and hospital. Clews described their relationship as 'not a full-on relationship' and said they 'just shared kids,' but could not explain why his wages were paid into her account.
Official Response and Warnings
Minister for Transformation Andrew Western, speaking after the hearing, emphasized that benefits fraud harms communities by diverting resources from those in genuine need. He stated, 'Let this be a warning to others, we will continue working together across organisations to catch criminals, and there will be consequences.' The case underscores the importance of honesty in benefits applications to ensure fair distribution of limited public funds.
