Abstract
Aim: This paper explores ways of maximising research engagement of ID staff as research participants, research advisors and research implementors.
Method: The authors describe and reflect on a three-phased strategy in recruiting frontline staff (n=690) working for ID service providers (n=25) to participate in a UK-wide anonymous online survey about death, dying and bereavement.
Results: Important elements in engaging participants were: involving stakeholders at all stages of the research process, which includes building relationships with participating organisations; enlisting organisational management support at all levels; an attractive and well laid-out collection tool; a well-structured recruitment strategy; time and flexibility; and a varied and targeted dissemination strategy. However, the recruitment method had limitations, in particular around representativeness, bias and generalisability.
Conclusions: Staff in ID services can be enthusiastic and invaluable research participants. Active engagement between researchers, participating organisations and stakeholder groups is key to ensuring involvement of ID staff with research.
Method: The authors describe and reflect on a three-phased strategy in recruiting frontline staff (n=690) working for ID service providers (n=25) to participate in a UK-wide anonymous online survey about death, dying and bereavement.
Results: Important elements in engaging participants were: involving stakeholders at all stages of the research process, which includes building relationships with participating organisations; enlisting organisational management support at all levels; an attractive and well laid-out collection tool; a well-structured recruitment strategy; time and flexibility; and a varied and targeted dissemination strategy. However, the recruitment method had limitations, in particular around representativeness, bias and generalisability.
Conclusions: Staff in ID services can be enthusiastic and invaluable research participants. Active engagement between researchers, participating organisations and stakeholder groups is key to ensuring involvement of ID staff with research.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Journal | Journal of Intellectual Disabilities |
Publication status | Accepted/In press - 12 Mar 2020 |