I am keen to interpret qualitative data as much as possible, rather than just to report it. I am skilled at summarising a large amount of data onto one or two pages of actionable recommendations. I am aware that decision-makers are busy people and need a clear concise report. I include anonymous quotes from participants, if they enhance understanding of the findings. I do not include quotes that may identify the participant.

My approach to facilitation is friendly but structured. People often feel nervous or threatened at the start of a discussion group and this can affect their ability to open up and think deeply about issues. I work hard to put my respondents at their ease. I am also keen that everyone gets a chance to speak and I encourage quieter participants while politely controlling more dominant members of the group.

I also work well with children and young people. I try to make the focus groups as fun as possible, incorporating games and activities to get the best out of the participants.

I work with a discussion guide as a prompt where I can see at a glance the issues to cover. I run informal discussions where the conversation flows. I am not tied to asking structured questions. The discussions start off with a ‘warm-up’, an easy topic where everyone can contribute. The discussion begins with general questions and then gets more specific to the work’s objectives.