What does a BSL interpreter do?

A BSL (British Sign Language) interpreter is a professional who facilitates communication between individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who are hearing. BSL interpreting is an important and challenging profession that requires skill, knowledge, and dedication.

BSL interpreters are trained to bridge the communication gap between hearing and non-hearing individuals, interpreting spoken language into sign language and vice versa.

Where would you find a BSL interpreter?

BSL interpreters work across all industries in a variety of different situations. You’re mostly likely to find them working in educational, legal, medical, and business settings. Their work is essential in ensuring that deaf and hard of hearing individuals have equal access to information and services, and that their rights are respected and upheld.

One of the most common settings in which BSL interpreters work is in the educational system. They are often present in classrooms, where they interpret lectures and discussions for deaf children, and also ensure that the educational needs of deaf students are met. BSL interpreters may also be present in college and university settings, where they assist deaf adults in accessing the same information and resources as their hearing peers.

BSL interpreters in the working world

Sign language interpreters aren’t just for classrooms. They are used throughout the business world, particularly in legal contexts.

They may be present in courtrooms, where they interpret legal proceedings for deaf defendants and witnesses. They also may assist deaf clients in consultations with their lawyers and in plea bargain negotiations. Interpreters are essential in ensuring that deaf individuals understand their rights and the legal proceedings and can participate in them fully.

Medical settings are also places where BSL interpreters are frequently needed. They assist in doctor-patient communication, interpreting medical jargon and treatment options for deaf patients.

This is essential to ensure that deaf patients have access to the same level of healthcare as hearing patients and that they understand their diagnosis and treatment options. They also provide interpreting service in hospitals, dentist and in cases of emergency medical treatment.

BSL interpreters in business

BSL interpreters also work in a variety of other settings, including business and government.

They may be present in meetings, conferences, and presentations, where they interpret spoken language into sign language.

They may also be involved in the development of products or services, such as videos and training materials, that are accessible to deaf individuals. This is an important aspect of being inclusive and being able to provide the same level of services to all clients regardless of their ability to hear. It’s also a legal responsibility.

How do you become a BSL interpreter?

In order to become a BSL interpreter, individuals must complete a rigorous training program that typically includes coursework in linguistics, interpreting theory, and the practice of interpreting.

They also have to pass a certification exam that tests their skills in interpreting, cultural, and legal knowledge. Some interpreters are also required to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification and stay up to date with new technologies and interpreting practices.

But possibly most importantly, a BSL interpreter must have a good understanding of the Deaf community and its culture.

Founder and director, Tina Lannin discovered how hard it was to get good communication support while at university and during her career, and so founded 121 Captions with the aim of making life easier for deaf and hard of hearing people.

Our core team at 121 Captions not only includes BSL interpreters, but court reporters and captioners, professional lip readers, certified lipreading teachers, and deaf awareness trainers.

BSL interpreters are essential in a wide range of settings, from education to healthcare to business, and they help bridge the communication gap between hearing and non-hearing individuals.

If you need a BSL interpreter, please don’t hesitate to contact us and our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help in any way they can.