.. Canavan (2014) argues that informed consent entails participants agreeing to take part in a study on their own free choice without being pressurised or influenced and adequate information be provided in relation to what they are consenting to. In qualitative study, the voluntary dimension of autonomy assumes greater significance as, in contrast to quantitative research which presents difficulty in fully informing individuals about the nature of the research from the outset (Ford & Reutter 1990). The letters will also contain a written assurance that confidentiality will be maintained and the right to withdraw at any time without providing a reason for withdrawing. The forms are to be returned in a pre-paid stamped envelope.
