Forensic Services Director’s Report

FDouglas provided an overview report which informed members on recent key activities across Forensic Services. During discussions the following matters were raised:

Members referred to the Tasking Unit and trauma-enabled work and congratulated the team on the work done within those areas. Members sought clarity on the following:

• Whether efficiency savings were on track as part of the transformation programme.
• How team engagement was being taken forward with staff and trade unions and the response to that.
• How were the out of hours being managed for the tasking unit.
• Whether there is a back log within cold case reviews and is there a requirement for further resources in that area.

FDouglas advised that there is a comprehensive efficiency plan and most of those savings are around non-staff costs, better use of the more expensive materials and consumables, improvements around the use of technology in terms of methods. There is also activity around rationalising the DNA processing facility (4 lab sites being reduce to 2 sites), along with better approaches to invoicing and purchasing. FDouglas advised that there are regular meetings with Trade Union colleagues around the implementation of the New Operating Model, including the Taking Unit. The SMT have a programme of going out to sites to visit staff to allow direct conversation. An oncall system in place for out of hours as and when required. There is a prioritisation process for cold cases and this prioritisation is dictated by Police Scotland and Crown Office. FDouglas advised that there is not a capacity issue, although there is always a want to be able to do more.

FDouglas advised that there will be a Post Implementation Review which would include benefits realise and lessons learned.

Members NOTED the report and AGREED the following action:

20230504-FSC-002: Fiona Douglas to ensure that the committee have sight of the Post Implementation Review including benefits realised and lessons learned.