Scribe

Research Ethics Policy

8. Research Ethics Policy

8.1 Scope

This policy applies to research conducted or commissioned by SCRIBE.

At launch, SCRIBE’s work is expected to consist mainly of desk research, public-source analysis and commentary. More demanding procedures will apply before direct research with people begins.

8.2 Core principles

SCRIBE research should respect:

  • informed participation;
  • dignity;
  • privacy;
  • voluntary consent;
  • minimisation of harm;
  • accuracy;
  • proportionality;
  • fair treatment;
  • responsible data handling.

8.3 Desk research

Public availability does not make every use ethically neutral.

When using public material, SCRIBE should consider:

  • the context in which it was published;
  • whether the author reasonably expected mass republication;
  • whether identifying the person is necessary;
  • whether the information concerns a child or vulnerable person;
  • whether quotation may cause disproportionate harm;
  • copyright and source integrity.

8.4 Human participants

Before conducting interviews, surveys or other direct research, SCRIBE should explain:

  • who is conducting the research;
  • its purpose;
  • what participation involves;
  • how information may be used;
  • whether quotations may be published;
  • whether participation is anonymous, confidential or identifiable;
  • foreseeable risks;
  • whether withdrawal is possible and until when;
  • contact information for concerns.

Consent must be meaningful rather than assumed from silence.

8.5 Sensitive topics

Research concerning health, bodies, childhood, disability, trauma, sexuality, intimate care, private behaviour or stigma requires heightened care.

Researchers should avoid collecting details merely because they are interesting.

8.6 Children

SCRIBE will not undertake direct research with children without a specific protocol addressing:

  • the child’s welfare;
  • age-appropriate assent;
  • parental or guardian permission where appropriate;
  • privacy;
  • safeguarding;
  • data minimisation;
  • publication risks;
  • researcher competence.

8.7 Adults at risk

Where capacity, coercion, dependency or vulnerability may affect consent, SCRIBE will introduce additional safeguards or decline the research.

8.8 Compensation

Reasonable payment or compensation may be offered for time and expenses. Payment must not be structured to override meaningful choice or conceal relevant risk.

8.9 Deception

SCRIBE will generally avoid deceptive research methods.

Any exceptional use would require a compelling justification, minimal risk and an appropriate debriefing process. SCRIBE’s current activities are unlikely to justify deceptive participant research.

8.10 Ethical review

SCRIBE does not currently claim access to a university research-ethics committee or institutional review board.

Where a project creates significant ethical risk, SCRIBE should seek independent review from suitably knowledgeable people or collaborate with an institution capable of formal review.

It will not falsely claim formal ethical approval.

8.11 Publication

Research findings should not be altered to please funders or campaign partners.

Limitations, material conflicts and methods should be disclosed.