scientific equation on blue screen

Forensics21

The Forensics21 programme aims to challenge, enable and improve forensic services to make society safer and deliver an effective police-led forensic service fit for the 21st Century.

In April 2008 the NPIA, in partnership with the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), launched Forensics21, an overarching programme of work aimed at creating a police-led forensic service. The first phase will run until end March 2010.

Forensics21 aims to:

  • Incorporate assured competency standards
  • Provide the best organisational structure
  • Use standardised processes
  • Enable the intelligent use of information and
  • Integrate and exploit existing and new technologies

Direction

Strategic direction for the programme is provided through the ACPO Forensics Portfolio Board, chaired by Chief Constable Chris Sims of West Midlands Constabulary in his capacity as the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO).

He is assisted by other chief officers who head up projects within the programme.

Management and business change

The programme office for Forensics21 leads on information, communication, monitoring and control of activities. It plays a critical role in achieving programme delivery by providing specialist skills, standards and knowledge in programme and project management.

The Forensics21 programme is benefits driven and led by an outward facing business change team of experienced police officers and forensic scientists. The programme uses a benefits approach to work in partnership with police forces and allows achieved benefits from the work of the projects to speak for themselves.

Phase 1 Projects:

  • Process management and improvement (CSI tasking and DAPSS -Detainee at police station sampling)
  • Organisation of structures
  • Digital forensic standards
  • Remote transfer of crime scene Marks (RT)
  • DNA developments
  • National Footwear Reference Collection (NFRC)
  • National DNA Database transition project
  • Evidential Drugs Identification Testing (EDIT) project

Phase 2 of the programme is currently under construction.

For further information on the work of the Forensics21 programme email us.