DRAFT Protocols for Sharing Genealogical Research

These guidelines are intended to help members of the D&DFHS get the most out of opportunities to share their research and help others in their search.

In circumstances where you may be:

• contacted by other members of the Society asking you to share research about your common ancestors via the "members' interests" lists,
• contacting distant family relatives, or
• are using any of the websites that enable you to share information, these guidelines should help you avoid any problems occurring.

If you are approached for information

• Be a little cautious. You may be happy to help others and share what you have found, but the saying "all give and no take" can apply. You may be doing all the giving and get nothing back in return. If you are happy with that, there will be no problems. You also need to remember that others may only have the same information as you, but that can reassure you that your research is accurate and that you have not missed anything.
• If your new contact offers to do research for you, make sure you understand what they are offering to do and whether or not they expect payment for their time or expect you to cover their expenses. Most genealogists will be happy to help another researcher, especially one looking into the same family, but some may be researchers looking for business. It is better to make the relationship clear from the outset than have an embarrassing discussion over unexpected requests for money.
• Ask where they have got their information from, who have they spoken to and where have they searched. This will help you gage the accuracy of anything they offer you but will also give you a feel about their openness and honesty.

If you want to approach others for information

• Be ready with, and offer to share, your family tree. This will go a long way in gaining the confidence of the person you have contacted by showing openness and a genuine interest in their family.
• Be prepared to offer more than you may get in return and then you can ask for the information you require.
• Remember that everyone may not be as interested as you are. You may be contacting people who are really are not interested in family history (hard to believe I know!) or they may know about sensitive issues that they will be reluctant to share.
• Remember that family stories are often one part fact and nine parts fiction. Express gratitude for any information that you have been given and then go away and check it with original sources.

DRAFT Guidelines Applicable To D&DFHS Members Undertaking Research For Others

Although D&DFHS provides a limited search and print service (Doncaster Death Registers 1875 - 1928 and Bawtry Cemetery Index) the Society does not undertake paid research and does not recommend any individual researcher or organisation to others.

Members (and visitors) using the Palgrave Research Centre may seek assistance from the duty Volunteers to help them do their own research. Any help provided by the volunteers is offered in good faith. The opinions they offer are their own and the Society is not responsible for any errors or omissions resulting from the advice given.

Members must not say they are representing D&DFHS unless they have prior permission to do so from the Executive Committee.

If members are undertaking research for personal financial gain, they must make it clear to prospective clients that this is a private arrangement and has no connection to the Society. D&DFHS also recommends that paid researchers make the terms of their offer and details of their fees clear from the outset.