Use of Interpreters

The course is aimed at all those who utalise the services of an Interpreter in order to conduct any form of interview through their work either paid or voluntary including staff within statutory, voluntary, community and independent sectors.

The language barrier can potentially have massive implications on the effectiveness of an investigation as a result of the investigator speaking to witnesses and suspects via a third party. This process produces a risk that what is said is not heard or that the answer given is lost in translation. 

The use of qualified language interpreters is essential to uphold a fair criminal justice system.

The right to liberty and security, and to a fair trial, are fundamental human rights protected by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and introduced into UK law in 1999. They include the right to interpretation where needed.

Course Outline

• Fully understand your role 
• Fully understand the role of the interpreter 
• Learn from previous case law 
• Understand current legislation and EU Directives 
• Psychological factors relating to the dynamics of the interview environment 
• Apply an appropriate decision making model 
• Prepare for the Interview 
• Interview planning & Strategy Development 
• Briefing an Interpreter 
• Listening and questioning skills 
• Interview structure 
• Apply a note taking model to all conversations 
• Practical role play interview sessions 
• Interview evaluation