As an evidence-based regulator, research is central to Ofcom’s work and decisions. Ofcom’s Research & Intelligence team commissions a large programme of research, working closely with policy-makers across Ofcom. When we’re commissioning our research, it is really important to us that it is inclusive of all consumers. Working with the Communications Consumer Panel we commissioned a project to better understand how all our research could be more inclusive of disabled people, people with long-term conditions, and/or people who may face barriers but do not consider themselves disabled.
What did we find?
One of the central findings of our research was how complex this area is, and acknowledging that there are different views on this area is a really important part of it. Some of the key themes that emerged were:
- Positive intent: How are you thinking about the research and the participants? What are your intentions behind the research? Have these been communicated clearly to everyone involved in the research (researchers and participants)?
- Rationale: Have you considered and provided a reason for the choices you have made?
- Transparency: Have you been open and honest in your reporting about the decisions you have made and any limitations?
The full report including all of the recommendations and insight from the project can be found below. In addition, we have published a cover paper which includes Ofcom’s next steps and plans. There are also shorter versions of the report to make the findings easier to share as well as a BSL video summarising the findings.
Reports
Main research report: Full report of the findings from the research agency Magenta.
Ofcom overview: Outline of Ofcom’s response to this research and next steps.
Plain English: Summary text version of the research.
One-pager: All of the key findings to reference on one page.
Methodology annex: Overview of the approach for each stage of the research.