Company
Who we are
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 FSS mission is:
To retain and reinforce our leading position as the principal provider of forensic science to the UK criminal justice system (UKCJS), and use this platform to become the leading provider worldwide, thereby enhancing long term shareholder value.
The FSS vision will challenge the way forensic services are delivered and who delivers them, and is: Real-time scientific solutions, supporting safer communities.
The FSS values are objectivity, responsiveness, reliability, innovation and collaboration.