Provision of DNA, Drug & Alcohol Testing Services 2024 - 2027 - AWARD

Bedford Borough County Council (BBC) must meet a range of statutory obligations to ensure that decisions about children are made using robust information. Often this information is obtained through a range of forensic tests and expert assessments to support care planning decisions.

Forensic testing (a term used to cover DNA, drug and alcohol testing) are used to help inform decision making, particularly in regards to the safeguarding of children. These tests are typically carried out before going to court, during care proceedings or are ordered by the court. BBC is looking to improve procedures to ensure that pre-proceedings and care proceedings are completed as expeditiously as possible, and within 26-weeks where care proceedings are issued.