Ethical Consideration

These included obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy, minimizing potential harm, maintaining transparency in data collection, analysis and presentation.  Consideration was also given to the potential impact of this work on participants and the broader community. 

Participants were fully informed about the project’s purpose, methods, potential risks and benefits before agreeing to participate. Their consent was freely given; the women volunteered to take part in the project and they were aware of their right to withdraw at any time.

Careful consideration was given so the project was conducted responsibly and with respect for the rights and well-being of all participants. The information gathered was then documented and exhibited in an ethical manner, avoiding misinterpretations or misuse of data. 

Protecting participants’ identities and personal information is paramount. Data was anonymized, securely store and care taken not to disclose sensitive details that could identify participants.

During the interviewing process staff were mindful of potential emotional, psychological, or social harm to participants. This included carefully considering the questions, methods, and potential impact on participants’ well-being. Safeguarding procedures and opportunities for support and counselling were built as best practice to protect the women participating.

Qualitative research often involves interactions between interviewers and participants, and thus should be aware of their own biases and potential power imbalances. Researchers needed to ensure that they were not exploiting their position of authority and that all participants had an equal voice. 

Adherence was given to relevant legal and ethical guidelines, such as GDPR, data protection legislation and human rights laws.