|
Home >> About the FSS >> General FAQ
The Forensic Science Service®: FAQ
What is The Forensic Science Service?
The Forensic Science Service® is a trading name of Forensic
Science Service Ltd, which is a UK Government owned company (GovCo).
It is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading providers
of forensic science and technology services, and is the largest
one-stop provider in the UK.
[top]
Who does the FSS work for?
The FSS provides a national service to police forces across England
and Wales, together with other national law enforcement agencies
such as the Crown Prosecution Service, the National Crime Squad,
Ministry of Defence Police, British Transport Police and HM Revenue
& Customs.
Because the FSS promotes an impartial, balanced approach in the
interpretation of scientific evidence, it is also available to carry
out criminal defence work and increasingly is providing an intelligence-led
approach to its work for customers.
The FSS has also assisted more than 60 countries worldwide with
services including consultancy, training services, systems and databasing
technology, and casework. We also assist overseas governments with
establishing or enhancing forensic resources, particularly in the
field of DNA technology.
[top]
Is the FSS part of the police?
No, the FSS is independent from the police service.
[top]
Which areas of the country/world do you cover?
The FSS primarily covers England and Wales - but can carry out
work across the globe. Our scientists are experienced in helping
investigate crimes in other countries, giving evidence in foreign
courts, and in consultancy and training work. For more information
contact +44 (0)121 329 5283.
[top]
Do you pass on your expertise to other countries?
The FSS is at the forefront of forensic technology and takes part
in a wide range of initiatives and partnerships throughout the world
to share knowledge and skills. For more information contact +44
(0)121 329 5283.
[top]
Do you only work for the prosecution?
No, the FSS works within the criminal justice system for the defence
as well as the prosecution and takes pride in its impartiality.
During 2003/2004, the FSS dealt with 130,000 cases with scientists
appearing as expert witnesses in court on some 2,500 occasions.
[top]
Does the FSS attend crime scenes?
Yes. During 2004/2005 FSS scientists attended approximately 1,800
crime scenes.
[top]
How do I find out more information about forensic
science generally?
A selection of useful books covering forensic science-related topics
such as drugs, firearms and handwriting analysis can be found on
our book list. It is also possible to purchase most of the titles
directly from our affiliated internet book stores by clicking on
the "buy it" button below each book's description.
[top]
What is DNA?
DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid.
DNA is the chemical which is found in virtually every cell in the
body and which carries genetic information from one generation to
the next. The genetic information carried in DNA is in the form
of a code or language which, when translated, determines our physical
characteristics and directs all the chemical processes in the body.
Except for identical twins, each person's DNA is unique. Half of
the DNA is inherited from our father and the other half from our
mother.
DNA can be extracted from any cells that contain a structure called
the nucleus. This includes blood, semen, saliva or hair samples.
The technology of DNA profiling doesn't yet allow the examination
of every single difference between people's DNA. However, techniques
used by the FSS look at specific areas of nuclear DNA which are
known to vary widely between people. These areas vary in length
between different people's DNA. DNA profiling analyses and measures
these differences in length.
[top]
I want to know more about all the forensic
databases within the UK judicial system and the laws that relate
to them.
Please contact the Home Office for details of legislation. All
legislation can be found at www.hmso.gov.uk/acts.htm
[top]
What is The National DNA Database®?
The National DNA Database® (NDNAD) is an intelligence database.
It was set up in 1995, following amendments to the Police &
Criminal Evidence Act 1984 by the Criminal Justice and Public Order
Act 1994. This allowed buccal (mouth) scrapes, criminal justice
samples, or rooted hairs, to be obtained for DNA analysis in broadly
the same circumstances as fingerprints. The information derived
from these can be searched against records held by or on behalf
of the police.
[top]
I am a student working on my dissertation/ project and would like some information on a particular technique/ area of forensic science.
We are unable to deal with each individual enquiry. Please refer to the fact sheets and case files section of the website or try our useful links section.
[top]
I would like the FSS to advertise in our publication/ sponsor our event
Please email your enquiries to simeen.kadi@fss.pnn.police.uk
[top]
I am calling internationally and would like to visit an FSS lab.
If you are from an international forensic lab, police force or a national government, planning to set up a DNA database please contact our international department on +44 845 120 72 72 or email international.scientific.service@fss.pnn.police.uk
[top]
I would like to arrange a school/ college / university visit to the FSS.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate such requests. We do occasionally hold open days at our facilities. Please check press for details.
[top]
I have an enquiry about the National DNA Database
For more information about The National DNA Database® including relevant legislation and figures, please contact the Home Office or visit http://police.homeoffice.gov.uk/operational-policing/technology-equipment/
[top]
I would like to have DNA or other forensic testing carried out
Members of the public should contact our NLE department on 0845 120 72 72. If you are a member of the media and would like the tests carried out for a documentary or other programme please contact the FSS press office.
[top]
I would like a representative from the FSS to speak at my school/ careers fair/ conference
Please contact your nearest FSS facility direct (details are available on our Contact Us page). Due to the volume of enquiries for speakers we are not able to accommodate every request.
[top]
I have a media enquiry about the NDNAD/ I would like to carry out filming in connection with the database
Please contact the Home Office Press Office on 0207 035 3535
[top]
Employment FAQs
Please see the Careers
FAQs.
Media FAQs
Please see Media
FAQs.
[top]
|
