Forensic use of DNA Citizens Enquiry
Sciencewise-ERC funded project 2007-2008
Background
This project aimed to find out people’s views on the forensic use of DNA, particularly in relation to the information held on the National DNA Database (NDNAD). Find out more about the project background.
Aims and Objectives
- To create an environment in which people from diverse backgrounds could come together as a group and develop their understanding of the main issues
- To create opportunities for genuine engagement between those whose voices are rarely heard and easily drowned out, and those who advise governments and set the public policy agenda.
Delivered By
Human Genetics Commission (HGC)
Commissioning agent for this project, and the UK Government's advisory body on new developments in human genetics and how they impact on individual lives.
Department of Health
The Department of Health (DH) is the government department responsible for public health issues.
Vis-a-Vis Research Consultancy
Research consultants providing services ranging from qualitative research to policy and strategy development, evaluation, facilitation, training and consultation.
Dr Max Farrar, Leeds Metropolitan University
Responsible for evaluation of this project.
Latest Status Update
This project is now complete. Find out more to the right.
Key Impacts
- Results informed, shaped and added questions to the wider HGC consultation that followed this in-depth work.
- Significant influence on HGC and its conclusions on the DNA database, and referred to in their final report (November 2009), and on its subsequent advice to the Department of Health.
- Taken on board by the National DNA Database Strategy Board, the National DNA Database Ethics Group, and the Home Office, all of whom acknowledged the Inquiry and its findings in their reports on the issues.
- The Government’s Green Paper ‘Keeping the right people on the DNA Database’, published in May 2009, reflected some of the concerns identified in the Inquiry.
Resources
Project Quotes
“There are certain things we wouldn’t have understood without the dialogue and it has enabled the Commission to reflect that understanding. In many ways it confirmed a lot of our suspicions about the way people would think, but we would have had no way of knowing for sure without the dialogue.”Policy maker
“We have established a basis for continuing dialogue and communications – HGC is taking the dialogue forward through the National DNA Database working group.”HGC Working Group member