Forensic Capability Network (FCN)
Definition
The UK network of private forensic-science providers (including Eurofins Forensic Services and Key Forensic Services) that took over the forensic caseload after the Forensic Science Service closed in 2012, regulated by the Forensic Science Regulator under ISO 17025/UKAS accreditation.
- Formed
- 2012, after the Forensic Science Service closed
- Regulator
- UK Forensic Science Regulator
- Accreditation
- ISO 17025 via UKAS
- Model
- Competitive market of private providers, not a single state lab
- Major members
- Eurofins Forensic Services, Key Forensic Services
Common questions
Why did the UK move to a network of private providers?+
When the Forensic Science Service closed in 2012 due to financial losses, the government chose a competitive market of private laboratories over a single state-run lab, arguing it would drive efficiency and cost control across police forensic spending.
How is quality controlled across so many private labs?+
Every provider on the network must hold ISO 17025 accreditation through UKAS and comply with the statutory Codes of Practice issued by the Forensic Science Regulator, which audits methods, validation and reporting standards across the sector.
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