I intend to complete qualitative interviews for a research dissertation but because I've chosen to interview specialist practitioners, I may have to sample from a geographically disperse area. I just wondered if anyone had any tips about how to source cheap and suitable rooms to complete these interviews in. I would need to visit the rooms prior to conducting the interview to complete a risk assessment. Because I am limited in my funds and will already potentially be spending a lot on travel, I don't think I will be able to afford hotels or conference bookings.

It's turned into a right nightmare and has been picked up by my university's ethics board as an issue in my proposal. I am also hindered in being able to use a lot of the participants place of work as I cannot use NHS property without going through NHS ethics which is a long and laborious process I don't have time for (I'm absolutely rubbish with forms so it's take me at least 5 attempts I'm sure)!

I'd really appreciate any advice or suggestions. Has anyone been in this boat before?

I would suggest contacting your subjects and asking them to suggest suitable local options they might know of.

I'm not quite sure why the necessity for a risk assessment prior to an interview. Is that something you could carry out on the day? Unless the subject matter is confidential and there is a possibility of being overheard, I can't imagine that any room you choose is likely to pose significant risks.

Community centres and local libraries usually have meeting rooms, often free or for a nominal fee. Or what about booking a room in your own uni for those close to you and then trying to link in with unis in the other geo locations?

Are video conferencing and telephone interviews an option for more remote interviewees?

Ian (Mackem_Beefy)