Use of Interpreters

The Council's service provider for its translation and interpretation service is AA Global Language Services Limited. All translation and interpretation requests must be made through AA Global.

It is essential that people’s communication needs are met and they are assisted in accessing services, including those whose first language is not English. This includes providing an interpreter where there are language or other communication difficulties.

Wherever practicable recourse should be made to a professional interpreter who understands the terminology and if possible the client’s cultural background.

An interpreter should be used:

• When the person has a limited use of English;
• When there is a concern that the person does not understand the information given in English;
• When the person is deaf or has a hearing impairment, a learning disability or uses sign language; and
• When you already know someone needs an interpreter from information given such as referrals etc.

Referrals received by Children’s Social Care should be recorded on Azeus.

People from ethnic minority groups should have equal access to referral and assessment arrangements which:

• Recognise their language and cultural needs;
• Involve them appropriately;
• Agree objectives with them.

Support plans should be appropriate to meet the needs of children, young people and families from minority groups and take account of cultural and religious backgrounds.

The Single Assessment should be completed including establishing if possible the language in which the child and parents/carers are best able to communicate.