You are invited to take part in a survey that is being conducted by the Countryside and Community Research Institute, based at the University of Gloucestershire working alongside Gloucestershire County Council.
Before you decide, it is important that you understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take the time to read the following information carefully and then decide whether or not you wish to take part.
Who are we?
We are a group of independent researchers from the Countryside and Community Research Institute. We are conducting research as part of a Horizon Europe funded project, Rural Sustainability Transitions through Integration of Knowledge for improved policy processes (RUSTIK). The aim of the survey is to help GCC gain a better understanding of the digital inclusion environment in the county.
What does my participation involve?
Answering survey questions about digital inclusion activities and services in the county.
What are the benefits of participating?
You will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of tools and practices which will support your region through the transitions this project is exploring.
Do I have to take part?
It is entirely your decision whether or not to participate.
What will happen if I don’t want to carry on with the study?
You will be free to withdraw at any time and without giving any reason. Should you decide to withdraw, please inform us within 30 days of completing the survey.
What will be done with my data?
As a Data Controller, the University of Gloucestershire will ensure personal data is held and processed securely in line with GDPR rules. The University’s GDPR policy can be found here: https://www.glos.ac.uk/docs/download/Governance/data-protection-policy.pdf
The results of the survey analysis may contribute to project reports and academic articles.
Anonymised data will be stored securely on a University server for the duration of the project (2023-2026), and for two years following the conclusion of the project.
Will my taking part in the study be kept anonymous and confidential?
Yes. Any write-up (e.g. report or academic publications) will remove names, affiliations and any other identifiable characteristics. The only exceptional circumstances where our anonymity and confidentiality rules will not apply is where we may be legally obliged to breach these rules, e.g. when information relates to a duty of care or illegal activity.
Who should I contact if I have any questions or concerns?
Please get in touch with us if you have any further questions or queries using the contact details below, quoting RUSTIK in your correspondence: ccri@glos.ac.uk 01242 714122
For queries specifically relating to data processing and GDPR, please contact Mr Chris Rayfield: crayfield@glos.ac.uk 01242 714121
This research has been approved by the University of Gloucestershire’s School of Natural, Social and Sports Sciences Research Ethics Panel. If you have any queries about this approval, please email the School Ethics Lead, Dr Hannah Chiswell, at ccriethics@glos.ac.uk
