Forensic Focus International Well-Being Study - Have Your Say

Jan 8, 2026

52:48

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Phil Anderson from Northumbria University joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the launch of the Forensic Focus International Well-Being Study — a global research project examining the psychological and physical impact of digital forensic work across both law enforcement and the private sector.

Drawing on his 24-year academic career and long-standing collaboration with Northumbria Police, Phil explains how digital forensics units have evolved and why DFIs are facing unprecedented levels of stress, burnout, and workload pressure.

Together with host Paul, he outlines the four core research themes behind the study — early-life trauma and resilience, the mind-body impact of occupational stress, organisational protective factors, and the role of neurodiversity — and issues a clear call to action for DFIs worldwide to take part and help drive meaningful change.

#DigitalForensics #DFIR #ForensicWellbeing #DFIs #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Trauma #PoliceForensics

00:00 Phil Anderson's Journey into Digital Forensics

01:34 Collaboration with Northumbria Police

02:33 The Evolution of Digital Forensics Units

03:34 Planning the Forensic Focus Well-Being Study

11:40 Exploring the Impact of Early Life Trauma on DFIs

19:51 Coping Strategies and Physical Health in DFIs

24:37 Challenges and Stressors in Digital Forensics

27:51 Challenges in Digital Forensics

28:42 Recruitment and Retention Issues

30:18 Acknowledging the Crisis

33:34 Protective Factors Against Trauma