Interpreting
Frequently asked questions
please click on a FAQ to find out some answers to your questions. If you have a query that is not covered by any of the FAQ, please contact us.
What is British Sign Language (BSL)?
British Sign Language is a visual language that uses hand shapes, facial expression and body language and has a distinct grammatical structure that is different from English. BSL is the first, or preferred, language for most Deaf people in UK.
What is a British Sign Language/English Interpreter?
A trained professional who works between the two languages and two cultures. Interpretation usually happens simultaneously and is generally referred to as being ‘signed or voiced over’ depending on the direction of the interpretation (to, or from BSL)
How do I know if I need an interpreter?
If you are meeting with Deaf people who use British Sign Language (or other signed languages) and you do not sign yourself, it is likely that you will need to book interpreters to enable two way effective and meaningful conversations.
Can you provide interpreters with specialist and technical knowledge?
Yes. We have interpreters who are experience in fields such as legal, medical, business and more. We always try to match the needs and requirements of each individual and/or organisation.
Why do I sometimes need to have 2 interpreters for my appointment?
Interpreting is a very taxing activity, both mentally and physically. Research has shown that an interpreter’s ability to mentally process the message and interpret it accurately diminishes drastically after approximately 20 minutes of interpreting.
Additionally, the rate of repetitive motion injuries among interpreters is very high. Therefore, when an assignment is over 1-2 hours, two interpreters will be scheduled; they will work and swap with each other approximately every 20 minutes, to ensure that the message is interpreted accurately for the full length of your booking.
Why do I need to book an interpreter?
The Equality Act of 2010 mandates that a comprehensive variety of public and private services as well as employers must be accessible to all people. When dealing with people who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, or hard of hearing, this means that information must be accessible. The best way to ensure this is to have a professional interpreter or other ways such as translation of information into other languages.
Someone in my office knows some sign language. Can I have that person as an interpreter?
Interpreting is very complex task that requires more than just knowing some sign language. The process of translating a message from BSL to English (and vice verse) requires high level of skill in languages and cultures.
In the case of a ‘signer’ who may work in your environment, there is no guarantee of quality, accuracy, or confidentiality of information.
How much does it cost to book an interpreter?
Costs vary and depend on such as the quality of the interpreter, length of the project, the nature of the subject matter, the location and the number of people involved. We charge a minimum call our rate and then a hourly rate thereafter.
If you would like us to interpret regularly for you then we may be able to offer you preferential rates, depending on the type and frequency of the bookings.
How do I book an interpreter?
You can fill in the booking form or contact us either by phone, video call, text or email.
How can I make payment?
We will send you an invoice when the work has been completed. Payment will be subject to our usual terms and conditions unless otherwise agreed by us. If you would like us to interpret/ translate regularly for you then we may be able to offer you preferential rates, depending on the type and frequency of the work.