How to use a sign language Interpreter 

You may be thinking of using a Sign Language Interpreter for the first time or you may have used one before and want to know a little more. Use the link above to view our guidnce page for helful tips.

When to use a sign language Interpreter 

A sign language Interpreter can be used for in many situations such as

GP * Hospital * Health Visitor * Midwifery * Dental * Staff Meetings * Public Meetings * Counselling * Parents Evenings * School Plays * Job Centre Plus * Annual Reviews * Job Interviews * Training * Voluntary Meetings * Welfare Rights * Financial Issues * Housing * Police * Court * Solicitor * Vets * Social Events * Theatre * Religious * Sports * Unions * .....and many more.

Why do you need us - We have the skills 

You may be aware that within Derbyshire there are many Deaf Awareness courses and also courses that teach Sign Language to Stage 1 and Stage 2 levels. These courses equip people with a basic understanding of conversational Sign Language.

However the interpreting process is complex and very demanding.

Why is the interpreting process complex?

The skills required to 'interpret' information far exceed those required for a signed conversation. The interpreting process demands the interpreter taking in a source language in one mode, e.g. visual sign language, processing this information and delivering the information in a different mode, e.g. spoken English. Or conversely, listening to spoken English, processing this information for meaning and cultural and linguistic equivalents and delivering the information manually in British Sign Language.

A high level of knowledge, skill and commitment to training is required for effective communication to take place.

We have Professional Indemnity Insurance and we have CRB enhanced disclosure checks.Yes all CU interpreting staff have CRB enhanced disclosure checks completed and are covered by Professional Indemnity Insurance.

We follow a Code of Ethics and have a Complaints Procedure

All interpreters employed by CU adhere to a comprehensive Code of Ethics.

CU have a Complaints Procedure and, in addition, for all Members of the Register, there is the CACDP Complaints Procedure (the national body).

How to book a sign language Interpreter 

If you wish to book an Interpreting service online, please use the link above which will take you to our online booking page. You will then be required to complete as much of the form as possible to help us meet your needs.