Professional Competence (CPC)

CSFS CPC is a practical assessment and offers forces;

• a theoretical knowledge check for each individual
• coverage of all elements of the scope of accreditation, or targeted procedures
• a Baseline / Initial competence assessment for staff new to role
• promotes continuous improvement as part of required on-going competence assessments.
• supports the FSR Codes of Practice & Conduct by providing full documented evidence of proper training and formal assessment that is routinely assessed.

As a force wide assessment CPC contributes to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to formally standardise good practice, identifies areas of strength for individual practitioners and areas in which individuals could develop further, identifies forensic unit strengths and areas that could benefit from unit wide CPD and additional support, and provides evidence of how the management monitor and support their staff.

The nature of the CPC process allows CSFS to measure the knowledge and understanding against NOS and identify

• force wide training priorities
• individual training needs

The programme will also provide both individual feedback re performance in practical assessment and management team feedback on additional targeted training.

Since the launch of the CPC scheme in 2016 CSFS has received excellent feedback from both candidates and forces, with the staff engaged in the process and positive reviews from senior management.

If you would like to find out more about how the Society can support your competency and route to accreditation please email vanessa.swales@csofs.org