Methodologies of Treading ‘Care-Fully’: The Reciprocal-Care Research Retreat

This paper presents findings from an exploratory study of a new ethics-driven qualitative research methodology - Reciprocal-Care Research Retreat (RCRR). In the neoliberal university landscape, ethical considerations often conflict with pressure to publish timely research outputs. New methodologies centring ethics and care are more important than ever, especially when topics are emotionally sensitive or involve trauma-exposed individuals. Eight women, all former police officers, responded to a call shared on networks to participate in research on misogyny in policing and to join the RCRR, which we define as a research experience conducted in a temporary, overnight residential setting. Alongside gender and occupation, eligibility criteria required participants to be over 18 and self-identify as having good mental health. The RCRR followed a 24-hour itinerary that balanced wellbeing activities with data collection. Participant views were gathered through interviews, fieldnotes, group discussion, and an anonymous evaluation form. The analytical approach involved thematic analysis of participant experiences, reflexive journaling, and ongoing verbal check-ins between researchers to monitor tone, pace and ethics of care. Key findings indicated that the sense of safety within the retreat setting supported disclosures of experiences of misogyny. The co-creation of care practices contributed to reduced distress and an enhanced sense of agency. Participants spoke about the ‘safe, calming environment’ and reported feeling ‘supported’ and ‘valued’. Recurring themes included empowerment, solidarity, recovery, connection and validation. While small sample size limited the generalisability of the findings, the process was more effective with a smaller group, fostering a cohesive community of care. Findings demonstrate the value of the RCRR as a feasible, acceptable methodology that centres care, ethics and supports richer interview data. The study also contributes a replicable practice framework for qualitative research. Future work will refine this framework through larger-scale studies, and development of guidance for researcher training in ‘care-full’ ethical methodologies.