A CHANTRY benefit cheat has been given a community order after falsely claiming nearly £8,000 in allowances.

Sarah Axton, of Birkfield Drive, Ipswich, appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates in Ipswich.

The 22-year-old pleaded guilty to dishonestly failing to notify Ipswich Borough Council of a change in circumstances affecting her entitlement to benefit.

Axton was accused of not notifying the council on or about November 10, 2010, of something which would alter her right to housing and council tax benefit.

The council tenant failed to inform officers that her partner, who lived with her, had found employment.

The amount of benefit Axton defrauded came totalled £7,787.

Magistrates gave Axton a six-month community order with a supervision requirement.

She must also attend a womens’ emotional well-being course.

In addition Axton may pay £150 towards the borough councils’ prosecution costs.

After the case a spokesman for Ipswich Borough Council said: “The council is always vigilant and determined to investigate fraud against the council and council tax-payers.

“This case illustrates once again the need to inform the council of all changes to circumstances as soon as possible.

“Fraud does not pay and ultimately anyone who makes a claim which they are not entitled to could find themselves in court.”