Example Consent Forms
Who is it for?
Children and young people who are considering taking part in research
Overview:
Consent forms provide a record of participants’ active consent and are an important part of project accountability. We recognise that this is as important in participatory projects or elements of research as more traditional data collection activities. Consent forms must be supported by clear, accessible, and comprehensive information about a project to ensure that any agreement to take part is a result of considered reflection and the fullest understanding possible of the project. Consent can also be recorded in other ways – via audio recording, video, or an online form.
Key strengths:
Consent forms provide a record of participants’ active consent and are an important part of project accountability.
Key challenges:
A signed consent form alone cannot ensure that informed consent has been given – rather it should be recognised as a marker of initial agreement while recognising that consent should be recognised as a dynamic and ongoing concern. The presence of a signed consent form should never undermine a need for active and willing engagement or prevent someone from changing their mind.