If you have
not used an interpreter before then please take time to read through
these basic guidelines. They are not exhaustive so please ask the Interpreters
and your Deaf clients or customers for advice if necessary.
•Environment: Attention needs to be paid to the lighting
and also to the positioning of all participants. It is important that Interpreters are clearly visible
and placed against plain, un-cluttered backgrounds to enable deaf people to watch and understand
them clearly.
•Equipment: If you will be using equipment (for example
- PowerPoint, OHP or specialist relevant equipment) remember to think about where these will be sited
in relation to the Interpreters and to the Deaf participants. Ideally, an Interpreter would
be placed next to any projected information, or video screens (for example) that may be
used. These are just two examples though so always enquire with the Interpreter before the
assignment commences to be sure.
•During the assignment: Please be aware of some simple
rules which will enable effective communication. These include: not talking over each other
(this is vitally important) and also the pace of speech needs consideration to allow
for effective
interpretation. If notes are requested by the deaf person(s)
during meetings please allow time for this also (i.e. it is impossible to read and absorb BSL
at the same time)
•Preparation Materials: As good practice Interpreters
will always ask for preparation materials before an assignment. This is also important. If possible
try to ensure that such material is available upon request. This can be emailed (preferably)
when needed. If you are concerned about material which you consider to be sensitive: remember
that Interpreters are bound by a strict code of confidentiality. A possible
solution to any such concerns would be to allow access to such materials for a short period
before the assignment commences.
•Breaks: Ideally, breaks will be taken approximately
every 30 minutes or so if the Interpreter is working by themselves. If there are two or more together
then this is not necessary. Needs vary from Interpreter to Interpreter, however, so it
is always advisable to check before the assignment commences.
When booking you will be asked whether
those involved in the assignment are experienced or not in using Interpreters.
We will usually allow for time immediately
prior to assignments to plan and discuss any specific requirements. We will try to arrive at least 15 minutes
prior to the official start time.
