Kiran Madhar approached the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Homeless Services Team in July 2023, claiming she had been asked to leave her parents’ property with her two young children.

She submitted documentation indicating she had no alternative accommodation, and was subsequently awarded emergency priority status on the Homes in the City waiting list.

Over the following 8 months, Madhar made repeated urgent requests to be rehoused. However, following an investigation by the council’s Counter Fraud Team, it was discovered that she jointly owned a 5 bedroom property in the Bradmore area of Wolverhampton – a fact she failed to disclose in her housing application.

Under Homes in the City policy, applicants who own property, have a financial interest in one, or possess the ability to obtain a mortgage aren’t usually eligible for social housing and may not be owed a homeless duty.

Madhar appeared before Dudley Magistrates Court on Wednesday 6 August, 2025, having previously pleaded guilty to 2 counts of dishonesty under the Fraud Act 2006, and was sentenced to a 12 month Community Order, including a 20 day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and a Mental Health Treatment Requirement. She was also ordered to pay £1,200 in costs and a victim surcharge of £114.

Councillor Louise Miles, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “As a council we take fraud committed against the taxpayer incredibly seriously, and this case sends a clear message that fraudulent applications for social housing will not be tolerated.

“Our housing services exist to support those in genuine need, and dishonesty undermines the integrity of the system and the trust of our residents.

“By stopping this application, the council has ensured that a much needed social home will be allocated to a family who truly needs it. We remain committed to protecting public resources and ensuring fairness for all applicants.”

Anyone who suspects fraud is encouraged to report it online by visiting How to report fraud.