This survey seeks to understand what people know, believe, and do regarding climate change and its impact on health. Your responses will help researchers and community leaders better understand the challenges facing communities and develop practical Climate and Community Health Handbooks that support healthier, safer, and more climate-resilient communities across the Caribbean.
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION AND CONSENT SHEET
For Knowledge Attitude and Practice Surveys
Title of Research: Extended Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Surveys for the Caribbean and SIDS: For Developing Climate and Community Handbooks- The Bahamas Pilot Study
Information about the Research Team
This study is part of a larger pilot study that will be conducted in seven countries- three from the Pacific (Tuvalu, PNG, Samoa) and four in the Caribbean (Antigua and Barbuda, Trindad & Tobago, Jamaica, and The Bahamas). For the Bahamas study, the research team comprises Dr. Calae Philippe (Senior Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Wellness), Dr. Sandy Bowleg (CEO Affluent Feeding Program, Grand Bahama)
This project has received ethical approval from the [enter IRB committee name].
Invitation to participate
We would like to invite you to participate in online surveys. Before you decide whether you want to take part, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done and what your participation will involve. Please take time to read the following information carefully and discuss it with others if you wish. Ask us if there is anything that is not clear or if you would like more information. By taking part, you are agreeing that you have read and understood the information about the study below.
Why is this research being done?
Climate change represents the greatest public health threat of the 21st century. Communities in the Caribbean, like Abaco and Grand Bahama in The Bahamas are among the most climate‑vulnerable countries in the world, are already experiencing multiple adverse health effects that threaten lives and livelihood. This study will assess community views towards climate change and health outcomes in a climate vulnerable community in The Bahamas. The information collected will be used to create an educational climate and health community handbook for the community.
What will taking part involve?
You will be invited to attend public workshops in your community where we will present information on climate change and its impact on health. In these workshops you will also be invited to participate in the surveys. Participating in the surveys involves completing an online questionnaire, which will be able to access electronically. The surveys will explore your views on climate and health, how your household manages risks from flooding and access to food, water, energy, and waste disposal, so we can learn about ways to adapt and improve and whether your household has financial measures in place to help manage costs from climate‑related damage to your home or livelihood. Finally, we will ask for your feedback on the climate and health community handbooks—whether the content is useful, how easy they are to access and use, and how often they should be updated.
Will taking part be confidential?
All responses will be confidential and all information about you personally will not be included prior to the researchers studying what you have shared. You will not be asked for any information that can identify your name, email and IP address will not be recorded. However, we cannot guarantee against interception of data sent via the internet by third parties (e.g., public wifi).
Do I have to take part?
Your participation in this research study is voluntary. There is no penalty if you choose not to participate and there is no financial incentives to participate.
What are the benefits to participating?
It is hoped that the research findings will add to the evidence based on climate change and health literature amongst communities in the Caribbean. We also hope that the community handbooks will be scaled up to use within communities to support understanding of the health impacts of climate change. You have the option to receive the results of this study, as well as additional informational resources on climate and health, community engagement, financial resilience and household survey, via email. Choosing not to receive study results or additional resources will not affect your participation in the study.
What are the risks related to participating?
This study does not include taking any blood or health information from you (i.e. it is non-invasive) and we anticipate minimal risks. But you may get emotional in answering the questions when you reflect on your experience from Hurricane Dorian in 2019. A questionnaire is being utilised which can be filled out at the convenience of the participant. Participation is voluntary and there are no financial costs to participate.
Who should I contact if I have emotional concerns or if I have further questions?
If you have any emotional concerns participating in the survey, before, during or after please let your facilitator know right away. We will advise you to seek counselling services at the Community Center or the religious organization of your choice and follow-up with you. If you wish to discontinue participating or continuing to participate in answering the questions the decision is yours. If you have any queries about this study or the procedures, please contact:
Dr. Calae Philippe: calaephilippe@bahamas.gov.bs or 242-376-2396
Dr. Sandy Bowleg: affluentfeedingprogram@gmail.com or 242-807-5668
If you have any questions regarding the conduct of this study or your rights as a person who
is taking part in this research study, you may contact:
PHA/UWI Research Ethics Committee (PUREC) Commonwealth of The Bahamas IRB Board via email at aglinton@phabahamas.org or rrbridgewater@pmh.phabahamas.org at 242-502-1400.