Developing documentary practices for sensitive contexts – video ethnography in the UK hospice sector

Any filmmaker who sets out to make documentaries faces multiple challenges, not the least of which is a set of ethical issues inherent in the process. How to portray the subjects of the film? What to shoot and what not to shoot? How to edit so that the film is true to its topic and subjects, yet also works as a compelling story for the audiences?
If a filmmaker is working in a sensitive environment, such as a hospice, how to represent people with dignity and sensitivity to that place, time and experience are added factors too. That said, the overall purpose of my research project is to use video ethnography in the Hospice Sector as a case study for developing documentary filming practices for sensitive contexts
My key aim is to explore how documentary and video ethnography methodologies can be utilized to help guide researchers as they navigate ethical concerns. A specific objective of my research project, partly conducted through interviews with people from a range of ages and experiences living out their last stage of life, is to identify the ethical issues relating to documentary recording of such sensitive subjects. It also intends to deliver evidence (in the form of both written material and film) about what quality of life means to people visiting day hospices, what specific practices, behaviours and attitudes have an impact on their quality of life and to capture the voices (through film) of those who are attending day hospices and expressing their views of a vision for care. Consideration will be also given to how their input, and the process of recording and having on record such input, might influence practice in the future.