The National Listening Project

Preparing to Fill out this Form

A guide to help you decide whether today feels like the right time to complete this form and how you can prepare yourself beforehand.

A message from the Inquiry
Thank you for taking the time to engage with the Inquiry.

We recognise that reflecting on experiences with organisations, institutions or professionals can sometimes bring up difficult thoughts, memories or emotions. People respond in many different ways and there is no right or wrong reaction.

This guidance has been developed to help you take care of yourself. You are always in control of what you choose to share, and it is okay to pause or stop at any point.

Before you begin
Take a moment to check in with yourself before opening the form.

Ask yourself

·         Do I feel emotionally able to do this today?

·         Am I somewhere that feels reasonably safe and private?

·         Do I have enough time so I do not feel rushed?

·         Is there someone I could contact afterwards if I wanted to?

·         What usually helps me feel calm if difficult emotions arise?

People respond differently
You might feel calm, anxious, relieved, frustrated, tearful, numb, proud, or notice very little at all. All of these responses are understandable.

Remember – You are in control

·         You decide whether to complete the form.

·         You choose what you would like to share.

·         You do not have to answer every question.

·         You can pause or stop at any time.

·         Looking after yourself is more important than completing the form today.