UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018: Core data protection legislation governing how personal data must be collected, processed, and stored, including participant information and research data
Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR): Specific rules for electronic communications, relevant if participants are contacted electronically or if online focus groups are conducted
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Ensures fairness in contracts and protects participants' rights as consumers of research services
Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008: Protects participants from unfair practices and ensures transparency in the research process
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: Governs intellectual property rights related to focus group outputs and participant contributions
Trade Marks Act 1994: Relevant for protecting any branded materials used in the focus group and handling trademark-related discussions
Market Research Society Code of Conduct: Professional standards and ethical guidelines for conducting market research and focus groups
Income Tax Act 2007: Relevant for handling participant compensation and ensuring proper tax treatment of payments
Trade Secrets Regulations 2018: Protects confidential business information that might be shared during focus group sessions
Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Ensures terms in the participation agreement are fair and legally enforceable
Electronic Communications Act 2000: Governs electronic signatures and communications if the agreement is executed electronically
Equality Act 2010: Ensures non-discrimination in participant selection and treatment during focus groups
Mental Capacity Act 2005: Relevant when working with vulnerable participants or those who may lack capacity to consent
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000: Governs recording of focus group sessions and monitoring of communications
