It is a fundamental tenet of medical research that those participating should do so only with their voluntary consent based upon sufficient information to make their decision. What constitutes 'sufficient information' is debatable; sadly this debate has resulted in information sheets used for recruitment to become longer in length with increasingly complex language used. Often the information sheet appears to be serving the purpose of absolving the sponsor of the research from any claims being made against them rather than mutual understanding between participant and researcher. Several attempts have been made to find ways to streamline the consent process which include participant decision aids, multimedia approaches and layered information. These approaches will be reviewed and practical steps will be offered as to how to demonstrate respect for individual autonomy rather than simply comply with regulatory requirements.