In the Spotlight - Jacob Parkinson
In the Spotlight this month is Jacob Parkinson, a Local Counter Fraud Specialist for the Health Board. His role focuses on safeguarding NHS resources, supporting staff in preventing fraud, and helping ensure public funds are used responsibly.
Jacob Parkinson joined the Local Counter Fraud Specialist team almost two years ago. He is part of a small team of four former police officers working across multiple NHS organisations in Wales. Jacob previously worked for South Wales Police where he was based in Port Talbot and then Swansea.
“I loved being in the police,” said Jacob. “I always thought I was going to be in the police until the day I retired. But this opportunity came up, and it offered a more family friendly lifestyle. I love this job as well because I'm still within that world of investigations and making a difference. At the end of the day, we all contribute to the NHS and want to avoid any extra strain caused by fraud.”
Jacob’s work focuses on preventing and investigating fraud. The team receive referrals from both NHS colleagues and the public.
“Every investigation we get, we treat exactly as we would in the police. We conduct inquiries, take statements and, if it came to it, conduct interviews under caution, giving the person a chance to give their side of the story. These are voluntary, and a solicitor can be present.
“After the interview, we would compile all that information and if we felt there was a case, we would put a file of evidence together to present to the Crown Prosecution Service and they would make a decision based on that.”
Fraud can take many forms, from phishing scams to falsified qualifications on job applications. Beyond investigations, the team also carries out fraud risk assessments across departments, helping to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen procedures. "We identify any loopholes or areas that might be open to fraud, so that teams can put procedures in place to prevent fraud.”
One of Jacob’s favourite parts of the role is delivering awareness sessions to staff and students. He regularly speaks to student nurses, medical students, and teams across the Health Board, helping them understand what fraud looks like and how to avoid it.
Outside of work, Jacob is passionate about football and an avid supporter of Newcastle United, and fittingly a big fan of Marvel and DC superheroes.
https://cavuhb.nhs.wales/news/latest-news/in-the-spotlight-jacob-parkinson/