Service under the Spotlight: On Demand Telephone Interpreting

Each month, we will be getting better acquainted with a TLS service; when and why you might need it, how to book it and how to make the most of the booking.

You may be new to the world of booking language support, or perhaps you book the same service each time because you don’t know what else is out there, or perhaps you have never considered that something different might work for you – this is for you!

In this issue, we are looking at our On Demand Telephone Interpreting. This is arranged by calling up our designated ODTI line and we will connect you by phone to an interpreter at any time of day, with no notice needed.

It is for you if:

You need an interpreter at short notice.

It is not for you if:

You need an interpreter for a more sensitive or complex subject, where body language, visual cues or establishing trust may be important.

When it works best:

As participants in the conversation cannot see each other, this kind of interpreting works best for simple and brief interactions, eg a ten minute GP appointment for a minor illness.

Tips to get the most from your booking:

• To make sure everyone can be heard well, try to choose a location that is quiet and use a landline rather than a mobile where possible
• Introductions are even more important when participants cannot see each other; ensure you do a thorough introduction at the outset of the call. If it is not obvious who is speaking, you may want each speaker to identify themselves every time they speak
• A smile can be heard in your voice. Smiling when you talk can help to put your service user at ease with what is probably an unfamiliar situation.

If you would like to know more or make an on demand telephone booking, call our bookings team for guidance and support on 0808 175 1230.