This charter is for anyone taking part in our user research sessions. It explains:
- the standards of behaviour and support you can expect from us
- what we ask from you
This is so sessions feel safe, respectful and useful for everyone.
Consent to share personal data
Any personal data you share during research will be handled in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). We'll send you a consent form with more details before the research session.
What this participant charter is for
Acas is committed to ensuring that user research is accessible, and that everyone is treated with respect and dignity. This charter outlines what you can expect from us, and what we expect from you, when you are taking part in research.
What you can expect from us
We will:
- explain the purpose of the research session and what user researchers do
- treat everyone with respect, empathy and dignity
- do everything we can to create a safe environment for everyone
- do what we can to provide support or adjustments that you might need
- handle your personal data fairly, following UK General Data Protection Regulation law
- explain information clearly and answer any questions you have about the session
- explain that you do not have to answer a question if you are uncomfortable doing so
- make it clear that you can stop a session at any time and that you do not need to give a reason
To ensure we all get the most out of the session, there might be times when we need to:
- pause you and move on with the session or conversation (we might have time to come back to a topic later on)
- ask questions to check we have understood something
- pause the session to check that you or other participants (if it is a group session) feel comfortable to continue
- provide information about other areas of Acas or about other services if needed
- ask others what they think in a group session, so that everyone has a chance to contribute
What we expect from you
To help create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, we ask that you:
- always treat our researchers and other participants politely and with respect
- follow the guidance we give you
- tell us if anything is unclear or ask any questions
- tell us about any adjustments that you need to feel comfortable
Unacceptable behaviour
In order to protect the wellbeing of all participants and researchers, there is certain behaviour that we will not accept.
Examples of unacceptable behaviour include:
- shouting
- threats or intimidation
- verbal abuse – for example, insulting comments
- discrimination – for example, racist, homophobic or sexist comments
- repeatedly asking researchers to do something outside of their roles and responsibilities
- being violent or threatening violence
What we might do if your behaviour is unacceptable
We might:
- explain why we think your behaviour is unacceptable
- remind you of the expectations within this participant charter
- ask you to change your behaviour
- tell you what action will be taken if you do not change your behaviour
We will give you a chance to change the behaviour. But if it continues, we might:
- end the session
- stop you from contacting us again
- in some circumstances, report the behaviour to the relevant authorities – for example, report threats of violence to the police
How to contact us
If you have questions about the research or need adjustments, you can email the User Research team at userresearch@acas.org.uk.