What do we have to do?
Just tell your story.
The interviews will consist of you and your partner, and the researcher. The researcher will first ask you for some biographical information such as your date of birth, occupation, and nationality. You and your partner will then be asked to talk about an object, which is significant to your relationship. The interview will take place at a time and place convenient for you both. It will be recorded with an audio recorder and transcribed. You may be asked to take part in a follow up interview. This would be to clarify details for the researcher; it will probably be shorter than the first interview.
How long will it take?
The interview will last about 60 minutes. The first 5 minutes will be devoted to reviewing and signing a consent form which lists your rights as participants and to answer any other questions you may have before we begin. You may also request a copy of the consent form in advance of the interview.
What are the possible benefits and drawbacks of taking part?
The main disadvantage for you and your partner will be the time involved. However, your input is extremely valuable to understanding in detail the experiences of people in similar situations to you.
Can I change my mind about participation?
Your contribution is hugely valuable. However, if you decide to take part you are still free to withdraw at any time and without giving a reason. What happens to the audio files and written transcripts? You will be assigned a participant ID number so your contact details will never be kept with the audio or transcript files. All the files will be kept in a password-protected, encrypted file on a password-protected computer. Files will not be sent by e-mail, only by secure internet transfer or on encrypted USB sticks and in this case they will only be sent by registered post. Transcribers, should they be used, will be required to sign documentation binding them legally to protecting your anonymity. During the transcription process all direct identifiers (names, addresses, employment, streets etc.) and indirect identifiers (workplace, organisations etc.) will be removed or changed. Any other researchers who use the data must comply with strict regulations about accessing data for research and protecting participant confidentiality. The findings of this research will be written up as part of my PhD in Human Geography at the University of Sussex and may later be published. These works may include quotations from your interviews and from the recorded conversations. I ask that you assign copyright to the researcher to facilitate the use of your words in publications. They may also be used for teaching and research training.
Who has approved this study?
The research has been approved by the School of Global Studies ethical review process. If you have any concerns about the way in which the study has been conducted, you can contact Yvonne, who is conducting the research by e-mail. The Phd supervisors are Dr. Katie Walsh and Dr. Russell King at the university of Sussex.
How do I find out more or become a participant in this study?
Just contact the researcher, Yvonne Salt, by e-mail at [email protected]
Thank you for taking time to read the information