How to undertake research with refugees: lessons learned from a qualitative health research programme in Southern New Zealand

Abstract

Background Refugee health is an issue of global importance. Refugees have high and complex mental, physical and social needs and poor health outcomes. There is a clear need for more research prioritising refugees' perspectives of health care in their settlement countries; however, a number of methodological and ethical challenges can make this process difficult. Methods This methodological paper is an analysis of our recent experience conducting qualitative research with former refugees in Southern New Zealand. We utilized our research team's discussions, reflections and fieldnotes and the relevant literature to identify the key processes of our successful engagement with former refugees. Results Successful engagement with former refugees in qualitative health research entails: establishing relationships, recognising interpreters as cultural brokers, having a responsive suite of methods and finding meaningful ways to communicate. Conclusions This paper offers suggestions and guidance on conducting qualitative health research with former refugees.