How were the forums run?

The forums were held over two weekends (4 days), from approximately 8.30am to 5pm each day.

Each participant received information about the issues to do with biobanks. Then in small groups of around 5 – 7 people, they discussed and reasoned with each other about their hopes and concerns, and the impact biobanks may have on them and on society. They then made recommendations about how biobanks should operate in Western Australia.

We encouraged discussions that are open, respect the views of everyone and allow all voices to be heard. Facilitators guided all of the discussions.

What was involved?

Participant feedback from August 2008 forum

“The respect that everyone had for each other and their opinions it was just enormous. Everybody just respected each other's view point, opinions and with the diversity and difference that there is here it is just amazing that everyone felt comfortable to share that and to speak out. It was fantastic. I think that was the facilitation and the crew did an amazing job of allowing everyone to feel that they were valued and respected and that made us willing to share. So that was great!”

"The facilitation in the small groups was just brilliant and it made everyone so relaxed.”