Involving survivors of trauma and human rights abuses in research – Reflections from a preliminary internal enquiry.

The article focuses on a preliminary internal enquiry conducted by a UK-based non-profit human rights organisation supporting survivors of human trafficking, torture, and other abuses, aiming to understand survivors' perspectives on research participation. The enquiry involved 14 English-speaking service users and highlighted key issues such as the need for trauma-informed research practices that prioritize safety, choice, and cultural sensitivity, as well as clear communication about research aims and consent processes. Practical barriers to engagement, concerns about discussing trauma, and the importance of flexible participation and appropriate compensation were emphasized. The article concludes with recommendations for researchers to collaborate closely with experts by experience (EBEs) to ensure research priorities align with survivors' current needs and to support meaningful, ethical involvement in research.