Some important tips to remember when working with a BSL Interpreter

From NUBSLI's   Interpreter Awareness Guide 

Booking: Try to book an Interpreter with as much advance notice as possible. Please ensure you choose an Interpreter appropriate for the setting. A Trainee Interpreter (TSLI) can not interpret in Mental Health and legal settings. Only use an Interpreter that is registered with NRCPD and has experience in the particular setting. 

Confidentiality - Interpreters abide by the NRCPD's strict Code of Conduct therefore you do not have to worry about information or materials being shared. Interpreters have enhanced DBS checks and valid professional indemnity insurance as part of their NRCPD registration. 

Preparation - Do try to send any handouts or preparation information/material to the Deaf person and Interpreter ahead of the session. Not all Interpreters will be familiar with vocabulary and jargon relating to certain settings; therefore preparation materials are extremely important.  

Flexibility - Allow extra time for the Interpreter and Deaf person to meet briefly prior to the start of the session, this is crucial time to ensure they can familiarise themselves with their language styles. Please allow extra time for the session as during discussions and questions there may be a small time delay as the Interpreter understands the BSL and reproduces this into spoken English and vice versa. 

Positioning - Ensure the Deaf person is able to see the Interpreter and speakers clearly, usually sitting opposite the Interpreter. Ensure you look at and speak directly to the Deaf person. Please don't place the Deaf person or Interpreter in front of a window or too far away as they won't be able to see clearly. Think about the lighting and any potential distractions. 

Speech - Please speak at a normal pace. Please do not over pronounce words or try to simplify sentences. BSL Interpreters will Interpret simultaneously therefore you do not need to pause to give an Interpreter time to 'catch up'. Please remain present and avoid distractions whilst the Deaf person is communicating e.g Looking at your phone or looking out of the window. Please do not say obscene words during conversations just to see how the Interpreter would sign those words. 

Questions - Do ask the Deaf person if you have any questions about Interpreting or how the session will work. Please don't ask the Interpreter what the Deaf person means, if something is not understood please direct your questions to the Deaf person. Remember it is the Deaf person that your appointment/meeting is with. 

Neutrality - Please do not ask an Interpreter for personal opinions or ask questions about the Deaf person. An Interpreter is neutral to the situation and will remain professional at all times. 

Subtitles - If you are showing any videos or short films during the session please try to enable subtitles. Without subtitles the Deaf person may miss key information as they will be constantly switching their gaze between the video and the Interpreter. 

Remember - Look at and direct all questions and communication to the Deaf person. The Interpreter is present to facilitate communication between Deaf and hearing people and will remain neutral throughout. To ensure equality, just as a hearing person would hear small talk, an Interpreter will sign any small talk between professionals/colleagues/clients to the Deaf person, so please be mindful. 

Further information can be found in the Interpreter Awareness Guide 

Created by NUBSLI - The National Union of British Sign Language Interpreters. 

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