New Ethnic Research Network

What cultural differences need to be considered when conducting research amongst ethnic minority groups? How to overcome language barriers? How to recruit members from different minority backgrounds? How do clients choose agencies with specific expertise in this area? These are just some of the issues that will be tackled by the newly-formed Ethnic Researchers Network, announced by The Market Research Society (MRS) in the UK.

The aim of the MRS Ethnic Researchers Network is to broaden the understanding of ethnic research in the UK and promote expertise in this field. The group has some 30 members who will meet regularly to share information, promote best practice and tackle current issues faced by those conducting ethnic research. This information will be disseminated to the wider market research community via the MRS website (www.mrs.org.uk). It will be chaired by Anjul Sharma, Associate Director at TRBI, with Karen Roberts from Connect Research and Mintel's Elvira Doghem-Rashid acting as Vice Chairs.

Anjul Sharma commented, 'The ethnic community is increasing and becoming more influential. Although research amongst this group is growing - particularly amongst public sector organisations - it is still a relatively new area, and one that sometimes suffers from confusion. The network will provide an ideal forum for both clients and agencies to share best practice and look at practical issues and methodology. We will tackle a range of topics, such as how to recruit from hard-to-reach groups, understanding language barriers and cultural differences, and even what food to serve at group discussions!'

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.