A quick introduction into understanding what an interpreter can and will be able  to do.

Before an interpreter is booked be sure to have relevant information to hand. When and where the event will happen, how long do to anticipate the interpreter being required to be present. They will need to know what topic of conversation that needs interpreting. This allows the centre to select the best interpreter for your event. Many specialize in different subjects such as law or medicine for example. Special Jargon and buzz words need to be highlighted before the event. Is the interpreter translating english to sign, or sign to english. Or may be both. Or do you just need a note taker or communicator. If the interpreter is required for longer than two hours, then two interpreters are usually required. Interpreting is a very difficult skill to master, and concentration for long periods are not possible. Swapping over every 20 to 30 minutes enables the high quality of interpreting to continue. Also the deaf people will need a break from watching the interpreter for long periods, it can be very draining. If the interpreter requires a chair for the event, ensure you have one without arm rests and without a swivel seat. The interpreter will usually be early so they can see the setting before it starts, seating arrangements and placement of the interpreter will need to be sorted out in advance. Backgrounds and lighting are very important. Circular tables are obviously better than say a long thin oblong table, eye contact is vital. All parties need to be informed before the meeting starts, that only one person can speak at any one time. The whole process will take longer than a normal hearing meeting. So a glass of water especially for the interpreter is always very welcome. The interpreter will translate every thing into british sign language, or into english. The only time they may stop a conversation is if they them selves do not understand what's going on. They will assume the role of the person talking, so when they say "I" for instants, they are not referring to them selves but to the person talking or signing. The interpreter will not take part in the meeting, conversation. They will not offer their opinion or surmise their own thoughts. But cultural mediation is sometimes required, all interpreters follow a strict code of ethics.         All information is strictly confidential, remain impartial at all times. Accurately translate to the best of their ability and understanding. Not to undertake work beyond their skills. Currently there are on average 140 deaf people to one trained interpreter, so demand is obviously greater than supply. To be an interpreter  requires fluency in english and sign language. The trouble is that english differs around the country and so does sign language. You may think, oh that OK just stick to one area. Oh if it where only that easy. What happens when a meeting is called in your area, with people from all over the country, or may group from say scotland. That's why to become an interpreter it can take up to 6 years before they are ready to practice. But the rewards are high, very good salary, good job satisfaction, and a wide and challenging range of work, with sometimes very amusing situations are come across.   Usually they require 'A' level english, and NVQ3 sign language or equivalent to enrol in a university. The two closest to the west midlands are :- University of Bristol, University of Wolverhampton. On successful completion of this coarse you will still only be classed as a trainee interpreter, until such time that you have proved yourself in many different situations. And people wonder why they get paid so much! (if I had done all that, I would want paying too!). Needless to say there role is vital, I still stand in disbelief of how easy and relaxed they make it look. Translating a verbal into a physical action at that speed takes real dedication. Do's Speak to the deaf person and not the interpreter. Allow the interpreter to sit opposite the deaf people. Stop as much background noise as possible. Send any useful info to the interpreter before the meeting. Book two interpreters for an events lasting more than half a day. Seat chairs and tables in a circle if at all possible. Ensure good lighting especially on the interpreter. Do Not's Allow more than one person to speak at a time. Expect an interpreter to work continuously fo longer than 30-40 minutes. Don't feel uncomfortable if the deaf people look at the interpreter and not you. Expect the interpreter to take sides or express personal feelings. Three local Interpreter centres are listed below :- Just Communications Ltd Redditch Tel 01527 592081 Text phone 01527 592082 Fax 01527 592083 Video phone 01527 595318 info@justcommunication.com www.justcommunication.com Sign Solutions Ltd Alvechurch Tel 01527 592110 / 592115 Text phone 01527 592110 Fax 01527 592149 email : office@signsolutions.uk.com Deaf Direct Communications Services Worcester Tel 01905 746305 Text phone 01905 746305 Fax 01905 746300 Videophone 01905 746303 commserv@deafdirect.org.uk           bsl sign language interpreters at http://www.rod-parrott.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk