These are the reports of two cases which were jointly investigated by the Health Services and Local Government Ombudsmen,, both of which involve the provision of services by local council and by NHS trusts and both, to some extent, concern the actions of staff working in mental health services. The first involved Enfield Council and Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust & Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust. The other case involved Havering and the North East London Mental Health Trust. Neither case was upheld in respect of the Councils though partly upheld in respect of North East London Mental Health Trust

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.