MRS Launches Post-Lockdown Data Collection Guide

In the UK, the Market Research Society (MRS) has launched new guidance for face-to-face data collection, in advance of halls, viewing facilities and venues reopening in England on Saturday 4th July. Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales have adopted separate measures.

The new advice supplements that provided by official government sources and details specific considerations and best practice for research businesses. In addition, it includes guidelines for preparing facilities - eg for cleaning and ventilation of public areas - and outlines how to communicate safety measures and controls to clients, participants and staff.

The announcement comes alongside the news that the MRS has, after lengthy discussions with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), received clarification on face-to-face interviewing with the over-70s. The government has confirmed that market and social research undertaken both with and by people over 70 years old can now go ahead, provided appropriate risk mitigation steps are undertaken. According to the MRS, this will ensure that this sector of society has its voice listened to, and that the 'significant number' of interviewers who are over 70 can continue to earn a living.

Chief Executive Jane Frost says that as England moves into this next stage in lifting lockdown, it is essential that research practitioners continue to prioritise the safety of their participants, staff, contractors and clients, so that they can grow and retain public confidence in the work they do. Bob Qureshi, MD of i-View, adds: 'We feel very fortunate that our facilities will be able to open up from 4th July with full government regulations in place. The work of MRS in liaising with BEIS over the resumption of face-to-face research has been vital. We're delighted to have had MRS' full and unwavering support'.

The guide can be accessed at www.mrs.org.uk/pdf/Viewing-facilities-guidance.pdf .