At BEAM Fieldwork, we understand that research involving children and young people isn’t just about gathering insights, it’s about doing so responsibly, compassionately, and ethically. Young participants bring invaluable perspectives, but it’s our job to ensure they’re safe, informed, and empowered every step of the way.
Why We Take Extra Care with Under-18s
The landscape of research can be complex for children and teens. That’s why we adopt a dual-consent model, ensuring both a responsible adult (like a parent or guardian) and the child or young person give informed permission to participate. We use clear, age-appropriate language, making sure each participant understands what the project involves before taking part.
Safe Recruitment Starts with Respect
We never approach under-16s directly. Recruitment always begins through a responsible adult who applies on behalf of the child. From that point on, we ensure transparency, sharing information about the research’s purpose, what’s expected, how data is handled, and what incentives are offered. Only once consent is secured do we speak directly with young people to confirm their willingness and comfort.
Age-Appropriate Incentives That Reward, Not Coerce
Incentives are a thank you, not a pressure. We offer age-appropriate rewards, typically vouchers for trusted retailers, so young participants feel valued without feeling compelled. In some cases, responsible adults may also receive a small token of appreciation for their support.
Flexibility and Support, Because Every Person Is Unique
Young people lead busy, varied lives. We adapt our approach accordingly, offering different application methods, reminders, trial sessions for virtual setups, and extra breaks as needed. We strive to create a comfortable environment where participants feel safe and heard.
Expertise Backed by Ethical Standards
Our team is MRS-accredited and trained in safeguarding best practices. We uphold BEAM’s values, BE Supportive, BE Resourceful, BE Trustworthy, BE Effective, ensuring that every interaction is respectful, professional, and caring. Our approach is not only compliant with industry standards but grounded in empathy and understanding.
Continual Learning from Our Youngest Contributors
We believe in reflection and growth. After each project, we invite participants and their guardians to share feedback. This helps us improve and reinforces our commitment to conducting research that is safe, ethical, and meaningful for under-18s.
In Summary
Research with children and young people must be more than just methodical, it must be mindful. At BEAM Fieldwork, we blend industry-leading safeguarding practices with flexibility, warmth, and respect. That way, every young voice is not only heard, but also valued and well-protected.