Fully formatted translations at no additional cost

E: info@easy-translations.co.uk    

T: 0845 200 7832    F: 0870 762 7312

Raigarh House - 11 Baynton Meadow - Emersons Green - Bristol - BS16 7EL

                                                       Frequently Asked Questions

My client speaks some English. How do I know if he/she needs an interpreter?

You don’t – so ask! Many people know some English to get by which may not be enough to have a complex conversation.

My client doesn’t want an interpreter, but I don’t think his/her English is good enough.

Some people are over confident about their English language skill.  If you feel his/her English is not adequate, try to convince the client by explaining that the interpreter will be mutually beneficial.

My client is concerned about confidentiality. 

A professional and experienced l interpreter should never divulge anything about any assignment.  You can have the interpreter sign a Confidentiality Agreement.  Just click the link for a template.

In some circumstances your client may feel uncomfortable about talking in front of a particular interpreter. Where this is the case, ask your client if there is an interpreter they do feel comfortable with, and try to get that person for your assignment.

Can’t I just use a member of the family / a friend to interpret for me?

Never! Using a family member or friend is a breach of the most basic right to confidentiality. If they still want their friend or relative to be present, then that’s OK – just as it would be with an English-speaking customer.

How do I know which language to use?

Usually clients have sufficient English to tell you their language. If you’re completely stuck, find some information about your clients country of origin, culture or religion and do some research in the internet or contact Easy-Translations where we will endeavour to help you out.

What’s the legal position about using interpreters?

It’s not just best practice to use interpreters: it’s the law! The Race Relations (Amendment) Act (2000) and the Disability Discrimination Act (2005) cover provision of linguistic support. Both acts afford people rights not to be discriminated against.

Not using Interpreter when needed results in failure to provide an equal service which amounts to discrimination.