This section lists steps you should follow when booking a sign language interpreter.

• Get all the relevant information about a meeting/event ready before making a booking. This information is required by the booking agency/interpreter.
• Understand how you will get in contact with sign language interpreters.
• Read the terms and conditions for the service and understand you are entering into a contract to purchase this service.

1. Find sign language interpreters

There are two ways you can find a qualified interpreter:

• Via a booking agency
• Contact freelance sign language interpreters.

2. Make contact and check availability

• Provide full details of booking
• Use the departmental booking procedure for interpreters if available.

3. Check terms and conditions

• Make sure you understand what you are responsible for doing as a result of booking an interpreter.

4. Confirm booking

• Follow up to confirm booking in writing or email, even if the initial booking enquiry was confirmed on the telephone. This makes sure everyone involved has the right details of the booking.

5. Inform the deaf person that an interpreter has been booked

• This will help the deaf person feel confident that they will be able to communicate effectively with you in a meeting and/or access an event.

6. Make payment after the interpreting services have been provided

• Payment for interpreting services will be advised during the booking process.

7. Provide feedback on how the service was provided

• Let the booking agency or the sign language interpreter know how well you felt the interpreting job went.
• Give your deaf client(s) the opportunity to provide feedback as well.
• Deal with complaints about the sign language interpreter if required.