
Apprenticeships: The Smarter Way to Build Capability
December 15, 2025
How Public Sector Fraud Is Evolving – and Why Skilled Investigators Matter
January 12, 2026Intelligencia Training has confirmed its continued sponsorship of the Apprentice / Newcomer of the Year Award at the Public Sector Counter Fraud Awards 2026, reinforcing its commitment to recognising emerging talent and strengthening the future of the counter fraud profession.
The award celebrates individuals who are early in their counter fraud careers or new to the profession, highlighting the importance of developing confidence, capability and professional standards at the outset of a practitioner’s journey. By supporting this award, Intelligencia Training aims to shine a light on those who are making a meaningful contribution to tackling fraud and economic crime across the public and wider economy.
Recognising talent at an early stage plays a vital role in building a resilient and professional counter fraud workforce. As economic crime continues to evolve in scale and complexity, organisations increasingly rely on skilled investigators who can apply consistent, high-quality investigative approaches. Providing opportunities for structured development and progression is critical to ensuring the profession continues to mature and adapt to emerging threats.
Nick Atkinson, Strategic Relationship Director at Intelligencia Training, commented:
“As the complexity of economic crime continues to increase, celebrating emerging talent has never been more important. These shortlisted individuals reflect the innovation, dedication and professionalism that the sector needs. Recognising success early not only celebrates achievement, but also inspires others to pursue continuous development and contributes to stronger overall capability across the profession.”
The individuals shortlisted for the Apprentice / Newcomer of the Year Award 2026 are:
- Clare Moran, Fraud Investigator, CFCD, Department for Work and Pensions
- Erin Ballantyne, Fraud Officer, Infected Blood Compensation Authority
- Jasmine Bell, Counter Fraud Intelligence Officer, Hertfordshire Shared Anti-Fraud Service (SAFS)
- Phoebe O’Hara, Criminal Investigator, Department for Work and Pensions
View the full 2026 shortlist here: https://www.counterfraudconference.co.uk/2026-shortlist
Intelligencia Training works closely with employers across the public and private sectors to support this professionalisation through funded apprenticeship programmes aligned to recognised counter fraud standards. These programmes enable organisations to build investigation capability from within, supporting both new entrants and experienced practitioners to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required to deliver effective outcomes.
For more information, please contact info@intelligenciatraining.com or visit: https://www.intelligenciatraining.com/counter-fraud-investigator/

