Working Behind Closed Doors: Navigating the Safety of Lone Working for Interpeters

As interpreters/translators working in the community or remotely, we often do so without supervision or the presence of interpreter colleagues. Often, we work in novel settings at any time day or night. There is often no immediate backup or support which can result a greater risk of aggression, or violence being directed towards us by our clients, their relatives, their pets or even the public.

Navigating the complexities of our profession, interpreters/translators often find themselves relying on personal judgment and instincts for safety. This full-day training session delves into a comprehensive exploration of the risks and precautions inherent in the interpreter's role. Drawing from their extensive professional experiences, Sarah and Gail utilise real-life scenarios, case studies, and interactive breakout sessions to illuminate aspects that may not have been previously considered or adequately covered in standard interpreter training – such as effective strategies for handling aggression. The session also explores existing policies, guidance, and protocols specific to lone working and interpreting. Topics include an in-depth examination of the potential risks associated with home offices, offering crucial questions to ask before a home visit, and emphasising the importance of maintaining a composed demeanour, akin to a "poker face," upon arrival. The training concludes with practical hints and tips designed to enhance the overall safety of interpreters in diverse working environments.

Key Topics:

- Risk Understanding: Explore the various risks and precautions essential for interpreters working independently.

- Real-Life Experiences: Benefit from Sarah and Gail's wealth of real-life experiences, enriched with case studies and interactive breakout sessions.

- Dealing with Aggression: Uncover strategies for handling aggression, a critical aspect often not fully covered in traditional interpreter training.

- Policies and Protocols: Delve into the existing policies, guidance, and protocols designed for lone working interpreters.

- Home Office Safety: Examine the home office as a potential window of vulnerability and learn crucial questions to ask before a home visit.

- Hints and Tips: Gain practical hints and tips for working safely, emphasising the importance of maintaining a composed demeanour in various scenarios.

Join us for this comprehensive full-day training session, where we prioritise your safety by addressing the nuances of lone working. Your participation will equip you with valuable insights and tools to navigate potential challenges, ensuring a secure working environment both online and in the community.