Consent Form

Investigator(s):
Rudo Makoni, Ambrose University, Canadian Poverty Institute, Researcher
Derek Cook, Ambrose University, Canadian Poverty Institute, Director
Community Research Assistant
 
Title of Project:
Fair Access to Insurance Phase 2
 
This consent form, a copy of which has been given to you, is only part of the process of informed consent. If you would like more details about something mentioned here, or information not included here, you are welcome to ask. Please take the time to read this document carefully and to be sure you understand any and all accompanying information.
 
The Ambrose University Research Ethics Board has approved this research study.
 
This project is funded by The Co-operators.
 
Purpose of the Study
The study seeks to increase financial inclusion, promote equitable insurance and resilience among communities using inclusive property and casualty insurance practices. By incorporating cutting-edge techniques and tailored insurance products, the research aims to address this insurance gap, identify strategies to address existing barriers, and position vulnerable communities to access affordable insurance, protect their property and assets effectively.
 
What Will I Be Asked to Do?
You will be asked to answer questions about your experiences on losses or damages due to a natural disaster, on access to insurances and the barriers or challenges you perceive in accessing property and casualty insurance services. This could include financial constraints, language barriers, information gaps, or any other factors that hinder fair access. You will be asked about your level of insurance literacy. You will have the opportunity to share your insights and ideas for improving access to insurance services. This could include suggestions for policy changes, industry practices, or innovations that could enhance fairness and equity.
 
This survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. This survey is completely voluntary. You can say no if you do not want to participate. You can decide to answer none of the questions, some of the questions, or all of the questions. The questions are all optional. You can withdraw from the study at any time without penalty. Your decision will not result in changes to your insurance, benefits, or support that you receive from an organization.
What Type of Personal Information Will Be Collected?
No personal identifying information will be collected in this study, and all participants shall remain anonymous. However, you will be asked if you live in a community that is prone to natural disasters and basic demographic information. Should you agree to participate, you will be asked to provide your gender, age, household income range and race.
 
Are there Risks or Benefits if I Participate?
We will be asking questions about your experiences with access to property and casualty insurance after a natural disaster. You might have to think about your feelings on that day or after, and this might cause emotional stress. You might feel psychological or mental fatigue when you think hard on past events. The study might involve discussing sensitive topics, such as financial difficulties or personal experiences with insurance-related hardships. You are not obliged to answer any and all questions. Your well-being will be the priority, and you can stop the survey at any time. A list of low-cost/free mental health resources will be provided.
 
Participation in this project and the final report will result in no promised action from The Co-operators.
 

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