Item 7

FORENSIC SERVICES DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Members considered the report which provided an update on recent key activities across Forensic Services. Fiona Douglas (FDouglas), on behalf o staff, offered best wishes to the Chief Constable, and highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members referenced the Forensic Science Regulator’s new code of practice which applies to England and Wales and questioned if this was a gap in Scotland. FDouglas responded that the statutory code of practice does not apply to Scotland due to differences in legal systems. However, Forensic Services have had voluntary compliance to the previous non-statutory code, and are now completing a gap analysis against the new statutory code. FDouglas stated she was confident Forensic Services have best practice and high quality standards.
• FDouglas advised Members of the critical need for long term resource planning, due to the time required for staff training. A Short Life Working Group has been established to look at demand and innovation. Members heard demand data has been based on previous trends but there was now more detail to allow thorough assessments for the future.
• Members heard most detailed types of science can take many years to train on, however there are elements of testing that can be done more quickly following appropriate training and base education. Forensic Services are looking at apprenticeships to lessen the lag time between recruitment and training. FDouglas stated that the majority of training is against internal systems and training standards, therefore it could be beneficial for Forensic Services to work with academia to accredit external courses.
• Members sought comment on how Forensic Services are meeting equalities duties and heard there was an active commitment to get involved in STEM. FDouglas commented apprenticeships and a changing approach to recruitment would help make the service more diverse.
• Members raised concern on the future possibility of being out of balance with outsourcing and heard outsourcing levels were an issue throughout the UK. FDouglas advised the Forensic Capability Network looks to identify policing’s strategic requirements and Forensic Services are involved in those discussions.
• The Chair questioned what area requires most improvement for services to Police Scotland and Crown Office. FDouglas responded that investment in the speed in which Forensic Services can provide intelligence was needed. This was less about science and more about having a key operating model and performance framework.

The Authority RESOLVED to:
• NOTE the report.