Research governance protects the rights of participants and makes sure research carried out by or with Trafford Council is safe, ethical and good quality.
You must apply for approval before starting any research that involves collecting information from or about people, including:
- residents who use council services
- their families or carers
- Trafford Council staff
What research governance covers
The framework applies to research that involves:
- collecting data about individuals
- using defined research methods or techniques
It sets out standards across five areas:
- ethics
- science
- information
- health and safety
- finance
Before you apply
You must prepare:
- a completed application form
- copies of any research tools, such as questionnaires or interview guides
- participant-facing documents (information sheets, consent forms, letters)
- details of your sponsor and any ethical or methods reviews
How to apply
Email your documents to:research.governance@trafford.gov.uk
Your application must show:
- the name of a sponsor responsible for the research (for internal staff, this may be your directorate)
- that ethical standards have been met
- that the research methods are appropriate and reviewed
- how finances and intellectual property will be managed
- how the findings will be made publicly available in accessible formats
- that health and safety risks have been considered and managed
What happens after you apply
- The Information Governance Officer reviews your submission
- The Research Governance Board assesses your proposal
- If changes are needed, you’ll be asked to revise and resubmit
- If approved, you’ll receive a formal approval letter confirming you can begin
There is no set timeframe. Apply as early as possible to allow time for feedback or changes.
If anything changes
You must reapply for approval if:
- you make significant changes to the research
- you plan to use different methods, participants or materials
Email an updated version of your documents to:research.governance@trafford.gov.uk
When the research is finished
Send a final copy of the completed research to:research.governance@trafford.gov.uk