Community interpreting, also known as public service interpreting, refers to mostly spoken translations which are offered to people who are trying to access public services in a different language.
Typical service users involve migrant communities, visitors and tourists who find themselves in need of linguistic support.
As a full member of the New Zealand Society of Translators and Interpreters (NZSTI), I offer professional interpreting services with a focus on cultural understanding and equality of access to services and information.
Experience and Expertise:
- Legal settings: court work, meetings between lawyers and clients, correction facilities
- Medical settings: doctor-patient consultations at hospitals and outpatient clinics, ACC, occupational therapy and rehabilitation
- Government services: Citizens Advice Bureau, Ministry of Social Development, Inland Revenue Department
Interpreting Modes
Consecutive
This type of interpreting is carried out in turns, with the speakers pausing so that the interpreter, with the help of note-taking, can translate their words into a different language. This is the most prevalent type of interpreting in community contexts because it does not rely on any equipment and suits the majority of contexts.
Simultaneous (chuchotage)
In community settings, simultaneous interpreting is used less often, as it can be cumbersome and tiring for both service users and interpreters alike. Without headsets and a proper interpreting booth, interpreters must whisper what they hear in a different language into the service user’s ears.
Translations with AM 