Statement from the CBUB regarding information sheets for participants in research projects

Given the numerous cases in which the information sheet provided to participants in research projects or doctoral theses is considered inadequate, the CBUB agrees to establish the following minimum common guidelines:

1. Regarding the format: It is important to keep in mind at all times that the information is intended for participants and not for other researchers or experts. Participants, in general, are not familiar with the terminology, concepts, or language commonly used among academic and research staff in a particular field. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the researcher to adapt the information sheet to the knowledge and language of the potential participant, without expecting them to know or guess what is being discussed, using terms and expressions that the participant can easily understand. This requirement is especially relevant in cases of projects involving minors or individuals with cognitive limitations.
   If acronyms are used in the information sheet that are not commonly known, it is necessary to provide the full name they refer to the first time they are mentioned in the text, adding the corresponding acronym between brackets.
    
2. Regarding the content: It is essential that the information sheets explicitly refer to, at least, the following items:

• Purpose, procedures, and characteristics of the project.
• Benefits expected to be obtained, both for the general population and, particularly, for the participant themselves.
• Risks that may arise from the volunteer's participation in the project, carefully distinguishing between known risks and those that are anticipated to occur (without ignoring, minimizing, or exaggerating them), with the aim of providing the participant with an adequate understanding of the aforementioned risks.
• The principal investigator or the director of the doctoral thesis should take responsibility for addressing any harm or damage that may affect the volunteer as a result of their participation in the project.
• Compensation (financial or otherwise) that participants may receive, if applicable.