How do I find reliable interpreters?
Competent interpreters generally belong to one or more of the
following professional associations:
Membership of a professional association is
normally associated with recognised interpreting qualifications. As
a general principle anyone aspiring to work as an interpreter would
have a minimum of a good honours degree in the language from which
they interpret. (The above professional bodies might accept on
application one of a number of acceptable alternatives judged on
individual merit.)
Additionally, it would be normal for the
individual to have followed a postgraduate diploma course or a
course leading to the Institute of Linguists’ Diploma in Public
Service Interpreting or CACDP Level 4 NVQ in sign language
interpreting. The Institute of Translation and Interpreting
requires those with qualified member status to have passed a
membership test, in addition to having practised for a specified
time. For full details of professional bodies ’ requirements, see
their individual websites via the links above.
Alternatively, many translation and
interpreting companies operate as an agency for interpreting
services. When enquiring about these services, it is recommended
that you check which of the above credentials the interpreters
have.
Some sectors have very specific requirements.
Sign Language interpreters must belong to the Register of Sign
Language Interpreters, held by Signature. If using interpreters in
a police or judicial setting, they should be a member of the
National Register of Public Service Interpreters.
CILT, the National Centre for Languages has
developed a full set of National Occupational Standards in
Interpreting and National Occupational Standards in Translation.
For further information see our section on Standards.