Fees
Each quote is thoughtfully created based on the duration, location and content of each assignment. Use the Contact page to get in touch to receive a quote. As a member of NUBSLI, I do utilise their fee guidance to inform my decision making process when I quote. They have lots of useful information about the cost of working with interpreters.
How to work with an Interpreter
Sign Language Interpreters are skilled professionals who interpret between signed languages, like British Sign Language (BSL), and spoken English. They facilitate neutral and confidential communication, ensuring equal access to information.
When speaking, maintain your normal pace and voice volume, and direct your attention to the deaf person while keeping eye contact, rather than focusing on the interpreter.
If adjustments are needed, I will inform you; otherwise, please continue the conversation as usual.
Interpreters will interpret exactly what is being said. This usually means interpreting in to first person- for example “My name is George” rather than giving third person summaries, i.e “George is saying that…” This produces the most accurate rendition of the source language.
Affiliations with Interpreting Associations
NRCPD - National Register of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and DeafBlind People
ASLI - Association of Sign Language Interpreters
NUBSLI - National Union of British Sign Language Interpreters
Professional Peer Supervision under Interpreting Pathways
Terms & Conditions
My terms and conditions detail cancellation terms, and specific conditions required to work safely. For example: when a co-worker is needed, any required preparation materials, the need to be notified in advance if an assignment is to be streamed or recorded for public use, and fees.
Coworking
Interpreting can be physically and mentally taxing, often necessitating multiple interpreters for a job, especially for assignments longer than one hour or those requiring high intensity. Research indicates that accuracy declines after 20 minutes of continuous interpreting due to cognitive load. Therefore, it's common for interpreters to rotate every 15-20 minutes to maintain quality and prevent fatigue.
Communication preferences
Deaf individuals' confidence in reading and understanding English varies significantly, and written notes often fall short for effective communication. Lip reading relies heavily on context, resulting in only 15-30% of the message being comprehensible. As a result, both parties may leave a conversation with different understandings, sometimes with disastrous consequences.
Always ask deaf individuals about their communication preferences and make reasonable adjustments to accommodate them. Many have preferred interpreters they trust, so it's worth inquiring about that. Ensure the interpreter is qualified by checking the NRCPD or RBSLI registers.
British Sign LAnguage
A common misconception is that British Sign Language (BSL) is merely English expressed with hands. In reality, BSL is a distinct language, officially recognised by the government in 2003. It has its own syntax, structure, and grammatical rules, using handshapes, facial expressions, and spatial elements to convey meaning visually. Communication in BSL can encompass the complexity and nuance of spoken language, making interpretation more about conveying intent than a direct word-for-word translation.
Best PRactise
Individuals who are deaf do not expect you to be fluent in British Sign Language (BSL); however, a positive attitude and a desire to connect can go a long way towards building a rapport. Learning some basic signs through Deaf Awareness Training or an introductory BSL class is even better!
It is important to avoid relying on a deaf person’s friends and family members as substitutes for professional interpretation. An interpreter is trained to handle the nuance and meaning of language whilst abiding by their code of conduct. It can be harmful for all parties using unregistered interpreters.
Service providers have a responsibility to ensure their services are accessible, which includes arranging for an interpreter as needed. It is not appropriate to assume that a deaf individual will bring an interpreter with them.
It is crucial to evaluate each individual’s communication needs in accordance with the Accessible Information Standard and the Equality Act 2010.
collaborating With others
Relay interpreters
BSL Consultants
Deaf Awareness Trainers
Interpreting Agencies