How to use an interpreter

British Sign Language to English Interpreters are a vital link in communication between Deaf and hearing people.  To help you get the most out of using an interpreter we have put together some helpful hints;

• Speak at a steady regular pace, too fast the interpreter may not able to keep up. Too slow or waiting for the interpreter to catch up is not helpful as they may need a whole message before it can be translated.

• Speak clearly and at a steady volume so an interpreter does not struggle to hear you.
• When asking questions, allow a longer pause than usual for Deaf people to answer as they will be receiving the information at a delay.  The interpreter will be using a 'lag' (starting a few seconds or more after you begin to speak) in order to interpret fully and accurately.
• Make eye contact with the Deaf person not the interpreter. 
• Address the Deaf person. The interpreter is there to aid your communication, not to be part of the conversation or add their opinion.
• An interpreter will generally use the first person to speak the response of the Deaf person please remember they are not actually part of the conversation.
• An interpreter will ask if you mind them interrupting you or the Deaf person in order to clarify anything they may miss. This ensures that  communication can be effective.
• A Deaf person can find it difficult to concentrate on an interpreter for long periods of time. This is because it involves constant eye contact in order to obtain the message.  Therefore a Deaf person may need more breaks than the average hearing person.
• In group settings it is useful for all participants to raise there hands in response to answering questions or making comments so an interpreter can catch up and the Deaf person knows who is speaking. Allow only one person to talk at once.  An interpreter can only interpret for one person at a time.
• Explain any Jargon to the interpreter beforehand and keep to a minimum.  Words that may be natural for you may not be to someone else.