Safeguarding policy
Our commitment to protecting the people who take part in our research.
Scope
This policy applies to all PF Global staff, contractors and partners in every market we work in. It covers all research activity involving members of the public, and any work involving children or adults at risk.
Our commitments
No participant should come to harm as a result of taking part in our research.
Participation is always voluntary, always informed, and can be withdrawn at any point without explanation.
Research involving children or adults at risk requires prior approval, appropriate clearance for everyone in contact with participants, and a named safeguarding lead on the project.
Fieldwork standards
Moderators and interviewers are briefed on the specific risks of each project before fieldwork starts.
Sensitive topics are handled with signposting to appropriate support, agreed in advance.
Distress protocols are in place for qualitative fieldwork and are rehearsed, not merely documented.
Reporting a concern
Any concern, however uncertain, should be reported to safeguarding@pf.global without delay.
Concerns can be raised anonymously. No one who raises a concern in good faith will face any detriment.
Review
This policy is reviewed annually and after any incident. Review dates and outcomes are recorded.