Forensic Science Service

‘The Forensic Science Service (FSS) is the market leader in the supply of forensic services to police forces in England and Wales and has a global reputation for excellence in the development and deployment of new and advanced techniques. Its heritage and expertise also provide the basis for world-class training services.

The Forensic Science Service pioneered the development and implementation of DNA technologies. It also paved the way for the establishment of the world’s first DNA database, launched in April 1995.

Since 2005 FSS has been a 100% Government-owned company, or GovCo. The change in status from a Trading Fund enables it to respond quicker to changes in the forensic science market and compete more effectively with other business in the field.

The drive for innovation continued to yield ground-breaking results, with the introduction of the National Firearms Forensic Database in 2003 and Footwear Intelligence Technology (FIT), the UK’s first online footwear coding and detection management system, in 2007.

The organisation has been on a path of transformation over the last two years. Part of the recent transformation activity has included a programme of developing leadership capability to support the organisation through transformation. 

A key element of this has been to develop a coaching culture and style of leadership, of which the accredited programme has been a part. Two cohorts of managers have bene through the programme and we have seen a great development in coaching skills for these managers.

Unfortunately, the government has recently announced the closure of the FSS, so the prgramme will not run again.’