Voices in Refuge
Interpreting services
1
SPEAK DIRECTLY TO CLIENT
Maintain eye contact with your client as you would with someone who speaks the same language as you.
EXPLAIN YOURSELF
Explain any idioms, acronyms, technical language and cultural references. The interpreter is not there to provide explanations, even cultural ones.
2
INTERPRETER IS NEUTRAL
Do not ask the interpreter for their opinion or include them in the conversation. They are not there as an adviser.
3
USE SHORT SENTENCES
Speak in short, simple sentences to allow the interpreter to easily convey the meaning of your message. Pause regularly to allow the interpreter to accurately interpret your message.
4
2
ONE AT A TIME
Take turns speaking and allow the interpreter to convey the full message before responding.
5
6
ONE CONVERSATION
Everyone has the right to understand all that is being said. Avoid side conversations or remarks as the interpreter will interpret these too.