Latest news with #Jemma
Daily Mirror
09-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Benefit cheat couple claimed they separated but social media showed the truth
A benefit cheat couple cheated their way to over £50,000 as they claimed to be separated and single parents - but the DWP found they were lying after snooping on their social media A married fraudster couple were caught lying about being single parents when they posted pictures of themselves on holiday. Alan Forsythe, 37, and his wife Jemma, 36, managed to cheat their way to over £50,000 in benefits before they were finally caught. The fraudsters lived together in Blackpool along with their two shared children and Jemma's two older children from a previous relationship between 2019 and 2023. In February 2019, Alan Forsythe made a claim for Universal Credit, claiming he was living alone at a flat in the town. His claims continued until October 2019. He signed on again in January 2022 claiming to be a single dad to a child living with him. Preston Crown Court heard he continued to claim Universal Credit on this basis until July 2023. Overall, he claimed £3,182.7 he was not entitled to. His wife Jemma Forsythe, who now uses her maiden name of O'Malley made a claim with the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) in June 2020, also claiming to be a single parent. She claimed she was living with her four children but failed to report that her husband was also living at the family home - and working full time. Her lies bagged her a whopping £49,007.91 until June 2023. In court, the pair admitted fraud. Both claimants said the information they had provided was true, and committing to inform the DWP of any changes in circumstances. Jemma also has a previous conviction for failing to notify the DWP of a change in circumstances, dating back to 2014, Lancs Live reported. An investigation was launched by the DWP and discovered social media posts in which the pair presented themselves as a married couple. They made further inquiries, looking at bank statements and credit references, before inviting them to be interviewed in June 2023. That month, Alan Forsythe said at a Jobcentre that he had split up with Jemma and was now sofa surfing. Later, Jemma told the same Jobcentre the pair had separated but not divorced. Alan Forsythe appeared in court via a video link from jail after he was jailed for four years when he carried out a brutal attack on a man who was left with life-changing injuries. He was sentenced to 15 weeks, his sentence running consecutively to his current one. His barrister Anthony Parkinson said he accepted he would face an immediate custodial sentence but was extremely concerned about the impact on his children if their mother was also sent to prison. Jemma's barrister, Kira Unsworth, said her client has a strong work ethic and is trying to tackle her debts through her work as a care assistant. She has since separated from her husband and begun divorce proceedings, she added. Sentencing, Recorder Ayesha Siddiqi said: "You were both involved in providing false information to the DWP which affected the benefits you were entitled to. You were a married couple and resided together in your family home. "At the time you made these claims you signed declarations but you were not providing accurate information. You were taking from the public purse. "Just because money is public money does not make this any less serious. "You knew it was a criminal offence," she told the mother. "You have a previous conviction and you went on to commit this offence over this period. This was fraudulent activity over a sustained period of 36 months that you were defrauding the DWP. "I have heard about the pressure you were under and that you are now working and taking steps to address your mental health. You recognise you need to work on this debt problem. "Taking money is not the solution. Your children deserve better than this - this is no example to set them. They are today facing the prospect of both parents being in prison. Their rights are very important to this court. "If it wasn't for those children I would be sending you to prison right now. Because of those children I am going to suspend the sentence." Jemma was slapped with 21 months suspended for two years with 10 days rehabilitation activity requirements and a curfew from 9pm to 7am for the next six months.
The Irish Sun
09-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Benefits cheat couple who lied about being single to swindle £50k exposed by OWN loved-up holiday snaps
A BENEFITS cheat couple who lied about being single were exposed by their own loved-up holiday snaps. Alan Forsythe, 37, and his wife Jemma, 36, spun a 36-month web of lies to dupe the Department of Work and Pensions . Advertisement 4 Alan Forsythe and his wife Jemma were caught out by their holiday pictures Credit: Facebook The couple were living together in a family home in Blackpool with their two children and Jemma's two kids from a previous relationship but claimed they were single parents. Between 2019 and 2023, the pair scrounged a total of £52,190.18 from the DWP, Preston Crown Court heard. But they were caught out after posting a series of photos of themselves on a family holiday on social media. The DWP made further inquiries after noticing the loved-up snaps and began to delve into the couple's bank statements. Advertisement Read more news Both Alan and Jemma were invited to attend interviews at the Jobcentre but they continued to lie about not being together. The pair eventually owned up to their deceit and pleaded guilty to fraud. Alan, who is currently serving a four-year sentence over a brutal attack that left a man with life-changing injuries, was handed a further 15 weeks in jail. But Jemma avoided prison and was instead handed a suspended sentence to protect her four children. Advertisement Most read in The Sun Exclusive Exclusive The court was told Alan was awarded Universal Credit he was not entitled to while claiming he was living alone in February 2019. He continued to scrounge until October 2019 but closed the claim before signing on again in January 2022. This time he claimed to be a single dad to a child who was living with him - swindling £3,182.27 in total. Jemma used her maiden name to make a claim in June 2020 - telling the DWP she was a single parent. Advertisement She claimed she was living alone with her four children but failed to report Alan was living at the home and working full time. The mum continued the lie until June 2023 - fraudulently claiming £49,007.91. Both parents signed a declaration stating the information they had provided was true and confirming they would inform the DWP of any changes in circumstances. The DWP launched an investigation and discovered social media posts where the pair presented themselves as a married couple. Advertisement Sentencing, Recorder Ayesha Siddiqi said: "You were both involved in providing false information to the DWP which affected the benefits you were entitled to. You were a married couple and resided together in your family home. "At the time you made these claims you signed declarations but you were not providing accurate information. You were taking from the public purse. "Just because money is public money does not make this any less serious." 4 The couple claimed they were single parents despite being married Credit: Facebook Advertisement 4 The DWP launched a probe after seeing the holiday pictures Credit: Facebook 4 The couple eventually admitted fraud Credit: Facebook
Scottish Sun
09-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Benefits cheat couple who lied about being single to swindle £50k exposed by OWN loved-up holiday snaps
CAUGHT OUT Benefits cheat couple who lied about being single to swindle £50k exposed by OWN loved-up holiday snaps Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A BENEFITS cheat couple who lied about being single were exposed by their own loved-up holiday snaps. Alan Forsythe, 37, and his wife Jemma, 36, spun a 36-month web of lies to dupe the Department of Work and Pensions. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Alan Forsythe and his wife Jemma were caught out by their holiday pictures Credit: Facebook The couple were living together in a family home in Blackpool with their two children and Jemma's two kids from a previous relationship but claimed they were single parents. Between 2019 and 2023, the pair scrounged a total of £52,190.18 from the DWP, Preston Crown Court heard. But they were caught out after posting a series of photos of themselves on a family holiday on social media. The DWP made further inquiries after noticing the loved-up snaps and began to delve into the couple's bank statements. Both Alan and Jemma were invited to attend interviews at the Jobcentre but they continued to lie about not being together. The pair eventually owned up to their deceit and pleaded guilty to fraud. Alan, who is currently serving a four-year sentence over a brutal attack that left a man with life-changing injuries, was handed a further 15 weeks in jail. But Jemma avoided prison and was instead handed a suspended sentence to protect her four children. The court was told Alan was awarded Universal Credit he was not entitled to while claiming he was living alone in February 2019. He continued to scrounge until October 2019 but closed the claim before signing on again in January 2022. This time he claimed to be a single dad to a child who was living with him - swindling £3,182.27 in total. Jemma used her maiden name to make a claim in June 2020 - telling the DWP she was a single parent. She claimed she was living alone with her four children but failed to report Alan was living at the home and working full time. The mum continued the lie until June 2023 - fraudulently claiming £49,007.91. Both parents signed a declaration stating the information they had provided was true and confirming they would inform the DWP of any changes in circumstances. The DWP launched an investigation and discovered social media posts where the pair presented themselves as a married couple. Sentencing, Recorder Ayesha Siddiqi said: "You were both involved in providing false information to the DWP which affected the benefits you were entitled to. You were a married couple and resided together in your family home. "At the time you made these claims you signed declarations but you were not providing accurate information. You were taking from the public purse. "Just because money is public money does not make this any less serious." 4 The couple claimed they were single parents despite being married Credit: Facebook 4 The DWP launched a probe after seeing the holiday pictures Credit: Facebook
Scottish Sun
05-07-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Parents go wild over ‘brilliant' 15p hack that removes grim stains from your whites – it's a must for school uniforms
Plus, scroll down to find out the ten grossest areas people forget to clean - are YOU guilty of some of them? WASH THIS Parents go wild over 'brilliant' 15p hack that removes grim stains from your whites – it's a must for school uniforms WHEN it comes to washing white clothes, many of us find ourselves trying every trick known to mankind get tackle stubborn stains. This is especially true for socks - which are prone to becoming mucky in practically no time, especially if you have kids. 3 Keeping the school uniforms and white socks pristine is challenging - but there's a cheap hack that makes it a breeze Credit: Alamy 3 One mum took to Facebook to rave about the wallet-friendly solution Credit: Facebook / Jemma Craig 3 The stain-banishing soap is enough to last a staggering 50 uses - and works out just 15p per use Credit: Scrubology Luckily, one savvy mum has come to rescue, after revealing an easy hack which will take your white socks from dirty to brand new with no faff. The best part? It costs just pennies too - and is a must for keeping your kid's school uniform looking pristine. Sharing the game-changer of a trick social media users begged her to reveal, mum Jemma Craig took to Facebook where she raved about a special product - Stain Remover Soap. Uploading a snap of her white socks before and after using the cleaning essential, Jemma said in the post: ''Thank you so so so much to who ever recommended this soap! ''It's saved me a fortune in new socks, it's worked a treat.'' The soap, which is made from natural ingredients and doesn't contain any harsh chemicals, sells for £7.99. Although that may seem rather steep, you get a whopping 50 uses from one bar - which works out to be just 15p per use and is certainly a better option that forking out for new socks. To get the best results and make your white sparkle like new, the brand recommends to wet the fabric first, moisten the soap and rub it into the stubborn stain. If necessary, leave for a few minutes, then rinse with clean water or put in the washing machine. What's more, not only is the soap kind to your garments but also the animals, as it's cruelty-free - a win-win. The cleaning must-have boasts an impressive five-star rating from delighted customers, with one person claiming nothing compares to this stain-banishing soap. ''I own every stain removed on the planet and this one outdoes every one.'' Another was singing praises and wrote: ''This soap is the best stain remover soap. Takes lots out stains out. Love it, can't be without it.'' A foodie chimed in: ''Tried it on a curry stain and it removed the stain completely. So very happy with this product.'' Fellow cleaning fans can order the soap online via the website and choose between a two-pack (£14.39) and a three-pack (£19.18). 10 Grossest Areas People Forget to Clean By Danielle Mason, who has 20 years of experience Under and Behind the Fridge Crumbs, dust, and spills accumulate over time, attracting pests and creating bad odours. Shower Curtain & Liner These collect mildew and soap scum but are often overlooked. Wash or replace them regularly to keep your bathroom fresh. Toothbrush Holder One of the germiest places in the bathroom, filled with bacteria and toothpaste residue. Rinse and disinfect it weekly. Dishwasher Filter Food particles and grease build up, leading to unpleasant smells and reduced efficiency. Remove and clean the filter every few weeks. Washing Machine Seal The rubber gasket traps mould, mildew, and detergent buildup. Wipe it down with white vinegar and leave the door open to air dry. Light Switches and Remote Controls Touched daily but rarely cleaned, making them germ hotspots. Wipe them down with disinfectant regularly. Under the Sofa Cushions Crumbs, dust, and even lost items hide in the cracks. Remove the cushions and vacuum thoroughly. Kitchen Sink & Plughole Food residue builds up, causing bad odours. Pour boiling water, bicarbonate of soda, and vinegar down the drain to freshen it. Ceiling Fans Dust piles up on the blades and gets redistributed into the air when turned on. Use a microfibre cloth or pillowcase to clean them easily. Doormats They trap dirt and bacteria from shoes but are rarely washed or vacuumed. Shake them out weekly and deep clean them every month. Head to her Instagram pages for more cleaning information @missmasoncleaning @daniellemasonuk 'Better than bleach' However, if you want to try out another hack before ordering the soap, cleaning whizzes have also been swearing by a 16p trick they insist is ''better than bleach''. One person had taken to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips group on Facebook to ask for advice, writing: "I'm going to try bleach on these stubbornly stained white t-shirts and socks. "They all have a little different coloured logo on them though. "Can I still use it?" People quickly took to the comments section to offer their own suggestions, with many recommending Napisan. "I would avoid using bleach," one wrote. "I used it on school shirts and it turned them yellow I had to bin them. "I would try Napisan." "I would recommend Napisan," another commented. "Bleach used to be my go-to until it turned my socks and a top yellow. "Napisan is amazing, doesn't affect other colours and works so much better than bleach." Manufacturers recommend adding two tablespoons of Napisan alongside your regular detergent in the wash for the best results. You can even wash at 30 degrees with Napisan. It works to remove stains by releasing active oxygen, which also kills germs - which is why so many parents use it to get rid of marks on their kids' clothes. For more intense stains, mix 60g of Napisan with four litres of water and soak the stained items in there for six hours. Then wash as normal. As you can get an 800g box of Napisan for just £4.50 in all good supermarkets, the stain-removing hack works out at around 16p for use
Wales Online
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Inside £2.2m Welsh home for sale which has 'devastating' backstory
Inside £2.2m Welsh home for sale which has 'devastating' backstory In the latest episode of Britain's Most Expensive Houses, Channel 4 viewers saw agents Sorcha Rodbard-Hedderwick and Jemma Friday head down to the Vale of Glamorgan. Inside £2.2M Welsh home for sale which has 'devastating' backstory (Image: Channel 4 ) On Wednesday night, Channel 4 viewers got a sneak peek into some jaw-dropping houses across the country in Britain's Most Expensive Houses. One of which featured the stunning Llwynhelig House in the Vale of Glamorgan, which was on the market for offers over £2.2 million. Agent Jemma was instantly blown away by the 17th-century Grade II listed building as she commented: "Wow, it's beautiful!" While exploring the home, viewers learnt it featured five reception rooms, a heated outdoor pool and six bedrooms. There was also extra accommodation in the garden in the form of a log cabin and a shepherd's hut. A voiceover informed: "This is one of the priciest and most renowned houses in the area." However, while Sorcha showed Jemma around the home, she recalled its devastating backstory. Article continues below The home was on the market for offers over £2.2m (Image: Channel 4 ) Channel 4 viewers learnt that the owner had bought the home when she retired and spent £1m creating the dream forever home for herself and her husband. Sorcha said: "She did it up over about 10 years, unfortunately the husband passed away just after they completed the property." Jemma asked: "He didn't get to enjoy it? That's really sad." In a cutaway, the agent explained she gets 'emotionally invested' in her clients. She added: "That's devastating to go through all of that. This was made to be a forever home." Sorcha explained the woman is now downsizing and wants to sell the home to give the money to her granddaughters. Sorcha Rodbard-Hedderwick and Jemma Friday headed down to the Vale of Glamorgan (Image: Channel 4 ) Another impressive feature of the home included the wallpaper in one of the rooms, which had been completely hand painted. During the episode, the pair took videos of various places around the home to market on social media, including speaking with a horticulturist called Bob about the garden. When Bob had wrapped up giving potential buyers information about the grounds Jemma said: "We talk all the time about listed properties and the age of the house. "You actually forget that this garden is just as old as the property, if not older! Bob was great, the knowledge that he's brought with him today, that's so fantastic for myself and Sorcha. "Estate agents get a very bad name, so we really do try and go the extra mile." Article continues below Britain's Most Expensive Houses is available to watch on Channel 4.
