participant guidelines

Research panel focus groups will typically be 60 to 90-minute sessions that are run online. We’ll use a platform called Teams. If you’ve never used Teams before, no need to worry. You don’t need to download anything beforehand as you can join using many internet browsers. You can find joining instructions here. When it’s time to join the session, simply click on the link in the reminder email. You may be asked whether you want to open the meeting in a browser or in the app. If you already have the Teams app installed on your computer, feel free to choose the app, otherwise go ahead and choose browser.

Unless otherwise noted, sessions will not be recorded.

Focus groups are usually limited to 8 participants and will be facilitated by a caba moderator. Other stakeholders may be present depending on the session, in which case, we’ll let you know before we get started.

Our priority is to make focus groups safe and inclusive spaces for discussion. We welcome different opinions and want to ensure that everyone feels heard and listened to, even if you disagree. At caba, we run focus groups to gather opinions and attitudes on various topics presented to the group. An informal conversation amongst peers helps us understand the experiences, challenges and values of our community. We’ll use feedback and insights gained from the focus groups to shape our activities.

Please take some time to read through the guidance below ahead of your session(s)

before the session

  • If you can’t make the session, please let us know by emailing [email protected] or using the cancellation link on the confirmation or reminder email.
  • Test out Teams if you need to, check your broadband connection, grab a cuppa and make yourself comfortable. It might also be a good idea to free your calendar for the duration of the session.
  • Let us know if you have any questions or concerns ahead of the session by emailing us at [email protected] 

during the session

  • We encourage you to keep your camera on whenever possible.
  • Use the mute button, especially if you have activity in your background.
  • If you’re not comfortable interjecting, use the ‘hand raise’ feature or chat box when you want to speak.
  • Feel free to tend to pets, children and the doorbell! We understand this is normal.
  • There will be a comfort break about halfway through the session.
  • Share your thoughts, feelings and attitudes in your own words and allow others to do the same.
  • We want you to feel safe and confident. Use this time to share your views.
  • We will welcome and respect different perspectives.
  • We may discuss challenging or uncomfortable themes; feel free to take some time away or turn your camera off if you need a break.
  • We ask that you do not discuss details of the focus group or participant outside of the session.

after the session

It’s normal to keep thinking about the discussion after the focus group. If you have anything you’d like to follow up with the team about please email [email protected]