Table 3 Stages of feedback loops. Based on article by [24]: p. 4

1. CE plans feedback

Social science team feedback to study team on CE plans based on socio-cultural research, local community dynamics and perceptions of the vaccine trial.

2. Meetings to discuss issues

Brought up issues encountered by the trial team/ community liaison staff requiring further research by social science team (e.g. design of the recruitment strategies).

3. Reporting rumours/ concerns

The social science team reported on rumours or concerns and communicated these to the community liaison team anonymously (not to breach confidentiality and to maintain independence of research).

4. Response by community liaison staff

Following feedback, the community liaison staff brainstormed strategies to respond to concerns and rumours. Strategies depended on specific issues raised, but usually involved different creative avenues for discussion with community and reviewing messaging to actively engage, as well as determining who was the best person in the team to respond and through which channel.