Ethics and empathy in sensitive research

Gain practical skills and confidence to conduct ethical, safe, and empathetic research on sensitive topics.

This course equips qualitative researchers with the skills and confidence to carry out ethical, safe, and empathetic research on sensitive topics and with vulnerable participants, such as survivors of domestic abuse, care-experienced young people, and individuals experiencing mental health conditions.

Through real-world case studies and interactive learning, you will explore how to embed empathy, ethics, and inclusivity at every stage of the research process. You’ll learn how to design research that builds trust, creates psychologically safe environments, and respects participant dignity, while navigating ethical and safeguarding responsibilities.

The course also provides practical strategies for managing the emotional impact of sensitive research on both participants and researchers. By the end, you’ll be equipped to lead ethically robust, inclusive research that empowers vulnerable voices and generates meaningful insights.

Learning outcomes:

• Embed empathy, ethics, and inclusive approaches into research design
• Build trust and psychological safety with vulnerable participants
• Navigate consent, safeguarding, and legal responsibilities with confidence
• Manage power dynamics and protect participant wellbeing
• Mitigate the emotional impact of sensitive research on participants and researchers
• Deliver meaningful insights while upholding ethical standards

Who will benefit:

Ideal for intermediate-level qualitative researchers and evaluators working with vulnerable groups or on sensitive subjects, who want to deepen their skills and confidence.

Learning method:

Group discussions, interactive activities, case studies.

Course delivery mode:

Online

Trainer biographies:

Poppy Reece

Poppy began her research career in local government and has extensive practical experience of leading sensitive research. Poppy has deep expertise in qualitative and participatory research with vulnerable groups and has delivered numerous projects on domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.

Poppy is co-founder and Managing Director of SMPL Research and holds an MRS Advanced Certificate in Market and Social Research Practice. With a background in social psychology and sociology, Poppy is passionate about doing research that matters and producing insight that drives positive change, embedding empathy, ethics and psychological safety throughout the process.

Maura O’Malley

Maura has a vast career history spanning the NHS, local authorities and the voluntary sector, and is an expert in accessible and inclusive design in qualitative research and evaluation. Maura has delivered research with survivors of domestic abuse, people with disabilities, and children in care.

Maura is co-founder and Field Director of SMPL Research and a champion of person-centred research, ensuring that accessibility isn't just an afterthought but a core part of the process. Throughout her career Maura has trained and upskilled others in conducting safe and ethical research, with expertise in building trust and removing barriers to ensure all voices are heard.