VULNERABLE families in Bradford are being targeted by Universal Credit fraudsters, an MP has warned.

Naz Shah (Labour, Bradford West) wrote to Thérèse Coffey, the secretary of state for work and pensions, expressing her fears of Universal Credit fraud against some of her constituents.

Several Bradfordians had contacted her with what may possibly be fraudulent claims under their names.

In the letter, Naz Shah MP said: “In the last two days, I have had five constituents that have been in contact with me as their tax credits have been suspended.

"All have been told by HMRC that their details have been used to apply for Universal Credit, yet none have done so, and consequently have reported this to the police.

“These constituents each have their personal vulnerabilities, whether they have disabilities, young children, or other factors, as well as the fact that their circumstances are reliant on Universal Credit.”

Ms Shah has told how the families are already struggling with disruption caused by Covid-19 and are concerned about their future.

“Many of them are hugely distressed and are at a loss to who they can turn to in these moments," she added.

“Given the number of cases, I have received within a matter of days; it seems as though there may be fraudulent action being taken on a much larger scale, and many others could also be in a similar situation.”

Naz Shah MP has requested immediate action and further clarity on the matter.

She now wants three questions to be answered...

In a message to the Secretary of State, the politician asked: “1) Whether your department is aware of any fraudulent activity taking place, in this regard? 

"2) What is being put in place to ensure those whose payments have been suspended, can have their matters resolved immediately? 

"3) Was the department prepared to deal with any fraudulent claims, and what processes were put in place to prevent such issues from arising?”

Have you been affected by this? Email natasha.meek@newsquest.co.uk