Our research governance framework and planning tools help ensure research and evaluation carried out with Ealing Council is ethical, proportionate and useful. Whether you are planning a small insight project or a more formal research study, these resources will help you identify the right approach and access support when needed.
Research governance framework
The research governance framework sets out Ealing Council’s approach to planning, reviewing and conducting research. It explains the principles, standards and governance routes that help ensure research is safe, transparent and aligned with local priorities. It also provides guidance on ethics, data management, community participation and when formal governance review may be required.
This document comes with supporting documents (appendices) which will be available soon. In the meantime, please contact the team at hdrc@ealing.gov.uk and they will be happy to send them to you.
Research and insights planning checklist
Most projects don’t need formal research governance approval. This practical checklist helps teams plan research, evaluation and other insight activities. It supports early consideration of ethics, data protection and inclusion, helping teams identify risks and decide whether additional support is needed.
Enhanced planning checklist for formal research
This tool is intended for more formal research and evaluation projects, particularly those involving sensitive topics, vulnerable groups, complex data use, academic partners or plans for wider publication and dissemination. It provides more detailed guidance on research ethics, data governance, inclusion and methodological quality, and helps teams prepare for governance review where required.
Need advice?
If you are unsure which governance route applies, or would like support planning a project, please contact the Evidence and Learning for Health team at HDRC@ealing.gov.uk. We can help identify any governance, ethics or data considerations at an early stage, before work begins.