CFEU’s Emma Cathcart named Female Pioneer of the Year 2026

We’re delighted to share that Emma Cathcart, Assistant Director of the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit (CFEU), has been awarded Female Pioneer of the Year at the Public Sector Counter Fraud Awards, which were held on 26 February 2026.    

Emma was nominated by colleagues who praised her exceptional leadership, dedication, and influence across a six‑council partnership that the CFEU supports.

Emma’s career in counter fraud began in benefit fraud investigation before she went on to secure government funding in 2015 to set up what would eventually become the CFEU. 

Since then, she has built and grown the service into a highly respected team working across fraud prevention, criminal investigation, enforcement and complex HR disciplinary cases. 

Today, Emma leads a team of 15 officers supporting councils, social housing providers, and partner organisations across a wide geographic area. Her clarity, professionalism and determination have earned consistent praise from councillors, senior officers, and peers across local government. 

2026 Winners | Public Sector Counter Fraud Awards — Counter Fraud Conference