Historically, across forces, there has been a lack of consistency in practices for the retention of materials subject to forensic examination, which has the potential to negatively impact investigations. Proper retention and storage of these materials is vital for ensuring that wrongful convictions and cold cases can be pursued. The new document provides straight-forward guidance on the correct retention, storage and destruction of forensic materials held by physical and digital forensic units. The guidance applies to policing and third parties working across the criminal justice system.