Forensic science provides a vital service to policing, the public and ultimately victims of crime.

The Forensic Capability Network enables the forensic work taking place locally in 43 police forces in England and Wales, which employ around 4,000 practitioners.

We're funded and led by the policing community and we act as an extension of the forensic teams in local police forces. FCN provides you with fast access to national knowledge, advice and capabilities – whether that's preparing for accreditation, taking part in innovative research or accessing commercial frameworks.

Funded by the Home Office

FCN is funded directly by the Home Office through reallocation of the police grant

Hosted by Dorset Police

FCN is hosted by Dorset Police on behalf of all 43 forces in England and Wales

Staffed by forensic experts

FCN employs forensic scientists, quality experts and support staff - many of whom joined us from operational roles in policing.

Founded in 2020

FCN was established in April 2020 to create national forensic support for forces locally and regionally

Our remit

We have a new, more focused remit for enabling forensic science activities taking place locally in police forces, which has been devised and agreed by police forensic leaders.

We provide national coordination and guidance, and help forces enhance their forensic quality and introduce new science.

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FCN remit

Forensics is changing. Join the change

Find out how FCN's coordinated approach to forensics is helping police forces, forensic practitioners and victims of crime. 

How to get involved

FCN works collaboratively with the whole forensic community from academic researchers and private-sector forensic providers to other organisations internationally.

We also partner closely with many other national policing bodies, joining our forensic expertise with their specialisms in digital, commercial and other disciplines.

Our policing partners

Find out who FCN partners with and what we achieve together.

FCN for academia

We bring together forces, universities and other research institutions to conduct innovative research projects.

FCN for the private sector

Find out how to get involved with FCN if you're a forensic service provider, supplier or any other private-sector business.

Forensic community

FCN is part of the forensic community. We brings people together to share knowledge and ideas.