Written by A, a member of the project’s Young Women’s Advisory group
In our second meeting in June 2024, our advisory group came together to discuss the latest updates, dive deeper into our research tools, and refine our ways of working.
Updated Ways of Working
We kicked off the meeting by revisiting our ground rules for how we work together, ensuring that we continue to create a supportive, respectful environment. These principles guide not only how we communicate but also how we handle sensitive information shared in the group.
- Respect and Sensitivity: It was reaffirmed that we must treat each other with respect and empathy. Every member’s voice is important, and we remain committed to creating space for everyone to be heard.
- Confidentiality: Confidentiality remains a cornerstone of our discussions, particularly when personal experiences are shared. It was agreed that no recordings or screenshots would be permitted without the explicit consent of all members. This helps ensure a safe space for open dialogue, where people can share only what they feel comfortable sharing.
- Self-Care: Given the potentially sensitive nature of some discussions, we encouraged members to look after their well-being. People were reminded that they can take breaks, use breakout rooms, or leave the conversation temporarily if needed—without any pressure.
- Flexibility and Commitment: While we encourage full engagement, we recognise that flexibility is essential. The group stressed that while we should all contribute as much as possible, we also understand that life circumstances may limit participation at times.
Feedback from the Advisory Group
After covering our updated ways of working, we turned our attention to the design and look of the study materials. During previous meetings, we had already discussed the content in detail, so this time, we focused more on the design and accessibility of the study materials. A key point of the discussion was how to make the research materials more accessible.
Research Ethics and Safeguarding
Next, we shifted to a discussion on research ethics, guided by an overview provided by one of the facilitators, Louca-Mai. This sparked a thoughtful conversation on confidentiality and safeguarding practices, particularly in relation to sensitive topics.
- Breach of Confidentiality: Group members discussed the potential emotional impact of having confidential information shared without consent. Some noted they would feel ‘violated’ or ‘betrayed’, while others said it would make them less likely to trust researchers in future. Several members pointed out that trust is especially important for minority groups, who may already feel cautious about how their data is used.
- Safeguarding Procedures: We then considered safeguarding protocols, with agreement that any information which makes researchers believe that a participant or another person may be at risk of harm should be shared on a need-to-know basis only. Beyond that, maintaining confidentiality was seen as paramount.
- Promoting the Research: A question arose about how group members could discuss the research with others. While promoting the study to people who meet the eligibility criteria is encouraged, members were asked to avoid discussing specific details of the sessions to prevent cross-contamination between different study groups.
- Friends and Family in the Same Group: A brief discussion followed on the potential scenario of family or friends being placed in the same study group. It was decided that this would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with considerations around comfort levels and openness. If necessary, they could be placed in separate groups while remaining in the same arm of the study.
Process Evaluation and Recording Sessions
Another major topic was whether to record some of the intervention sessions for the purposes of process evaluation.
- Consent for Recording: The group was generally open to the idea of recording sessions, provided that the focus is on how the intervention is being delivered rather than on what participants say. It was agreed that all participants must give their informed consent before any recording takes place. Where recording isn’t possible, detailed notes should be taken instead.
- Impact of Recording: There was a lively discussion about whether knowing a session is being recorded could influence participant behaviour. Some members thought it might make people more self-conscious, potentially causing them to ‘put on more of an act’. However, it was clarified that the recordings would focus on the intervention delivery, not on the participants’ responses.
- Audio-Only Recording: For cultural and religious reasons, some members felt more comfortable with audio-only recording, which was agreed upon by the group.
Design Feedback: Logos and Website
Towards the end of the meeting, we looked at various logo options for the project. After some discussion, the group agreed on a design.
The group’s commitment and thoughtful contributions are helping to shape this project, and we’re excited about the progress being made as we move forward.