UK FSR

Management of DNA Elimination Databases (FSR-GUI-0028)

The Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) has published guidance FSR-GUI-0028, updating and replacing FSR-P-302 on the management of staff elimination DNA databases. The guidance applies to practitioners, DNA process personnel, kit manufacturers, and database operators involved in forensic DNA analysis. Its stated purpose is to preserve the integrity of forensic DNA evidence and databases by identifying and preventing the addition of DNA profiles derived from contamination by individuals in the DNA process chain.

FSR-GUI-0004 Guidance on Forensic Science Activities Interpretation and Communication

The Forensic Science Regulator has published updated guidance FSR-GUI-0004 on interpretation and communication of observations from forensic science activities. The March 2026 update corrects a misquotation of the expert definition in section 3.1.1. The guidance sets principles and expectations for forensic practitioners in England and Wales, drafted by a group of practitioners and academic experts convened by the Regulator.

Autosomal DNA Relationship Testing Guidance for Practitioners (FSR-GUI-0014)

The Forensic Science Regulator has published updated guidance (FSR-GUI-0014) on autosomal DNA short tandem repeat (STR) relationship testing, replacing the earlier FSR-G-228 document. The guidance provides practitioners with recommended principles for conducting relationship testing using autosomal DNA markers, including STRs, In/Dels, and SNPs. While the document applies specifically to STR markers, the underlying principles may be extended to other autosomal marker classes.

Contamination Detection: DNA Elimination Samples FSR-GUI-0019

The Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) has published guidance FSR-GUI-0019 on providing DNA elimination samples to detect inadvertent DNA contamination by staff within the criminal justice system. The guidance applies to organisations in England and Wales whose staff process items for DNA profiling. This guidance is advisory and does not impose mandatory compliance requirements.

Declarations of Compliance and Non-Compliance With FSR Code of Practice (FSR-GUI-0001)

The Forensic Science Regulator published Version 3 of its guidance on declaring compliance with the statutory code of practice (FSR-GUI-0001). The guidance explains how organisations declare compliance or non-compliance with the FSR code of practice. Version 3 updates earlier guidance issued in August 2024. The FSR code of practice became statutory under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.