Fish Communications Ltd
British Sign Language Interpreting & Independent Advocacy
BSL Interpreting
Face to face interpreting
Face to face interpreting is when the interpreter facilitates communication between two parties who do not share the same language and all are present in the same place. People mistakenly believe that the BSL interpreter is needed for a deaf person to communicate with a hearing person, however, it is a two way process. Neither party can fully communicate with each other so an interpreter who is fluent in both languages is needed to ensure full access for both people.
We believe that the interpreter is an integral part of the communication and should facilitate as naturally as possible with the aim of creating a comfortable and positive exchange.
Written translation
Translation from English to BSL or vice versa is similar but slightly different to simultaneous BSL/ English Interpreting. We offer both translation of BSL to written English and English to BSL.
Video Relay Support
Video relay support occurs when one or other of the party is present via a video link - this could be Skype, Facetime or Messenger.
Our interpreters do not:
Make decisions for you
When we're involved in communicating we create levels of familiarisation and openness. Sometimes this can lead to a sense of familiarity that may make it easy to ask for help in making a decision. Whilst we will support you to make the decision we cannot decide what is best for you.
Speak to people on your behalf
We will not speak to anyone on your behalf without your presence or consent to do so and anything anyone says in your absence will be passed on.
Project any of their beliefs onto your experience
We are all different and it's possible that when you are working together with the interpreter you both may hold different beliefs or ideals, however, these will not influence the interpreters interpreting nor treatment of you. If you wish to discuss anything once the interpreting situation is over, especially if you feel that different beliefs did in fact influence the interpreting then the interpreter will be more than happy to do so. Constructive feedback is always welcome.