Hiring interpreters for individuals who are deaf-blind - Deaf-Blindness

American Rehabilitation, Summer, 1995 by Kathryn L. Raistrick

Other people with visual impairments need the interpreter to be at a certain distance, to compensate for their restricted visual field. The interpreter must be aware of this; and, in preparing for the interpreting situation, the interpreter must ensure that the consumer is at a comfortable distance and able to see as much as possible.

Using the Sighted Guide Technique and Emergency Procedures. At times, the interpreter may be responsible for helping the consumer get from one place to another. If the consumer is unable to travel independently, the interpreter must be proficient in the use of the sighted guide technique, which enables him/her to lead the consumer safely from place to place.

In an emergency, such as a fire alarm or tornado alert, there may not be time for the interpreter to explain the situation before leading the consumer to safety. The interpreter should be familiar with the signal which is used to notify deaf-blind persons of emergencies. By drawing an X" with a finger on the consumer's back near the shoulder blade, the interpreter indicates an emergency and instructs the consumer to follow. All will be explained when they are in a safe place.

How to Hire a Qualified

Interpreter

Finding an Interpreter. If possible, the first contact should be the consumer, who may work with one interpreter regularly and can provide all the information necessary to contact and hire him/her.

Most states have an interpreter referral agency. Often, centers for independent living help find interpreters. Also, the local vocational rehabilitation office or educational program may be able to provide a list of interpreters. The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf prints a membership directory which includes interpreters in the United States and Canada and is available through the local RID chapter.

What if you can't find an interpreter? In some areas of the country, there are very few interpreters, and even fewer interpreters trained in working with people who are deaf-blind thus making the interpreter search very difficult. More extreme measures may be necessary, such as expanding the search beyond the immediate area. Some of the resources mentkioned above can help in locating interpreters from surrounding cities who are willing to travel. However, it may be necessary to provide travel reimbursement and lodging.

Long-term planning may be required. In some communities it may be necessary to provide grants for interested persons to attend interpreter training programs.

Interpreters in the area who have not been trained in interpreting for persons who are deaf-blind should request such training from their regional Interpreting Training Project. These federally funded projects provide training in most aspects of interpreting, and interpreting for consumers who are deaf-blind should be available.

When is the best time to start looking? Because ADA has increased the demand for more interpreters, it is becoming much more difficult to locate qualified interpreters quickly Thus, it is important to begin looking for an interpreter as soon as it is decided that an interpreter will be needed. Two weeks to a month ahead is usually enough time. Many hospitals and agencies have contracted with interpreters or hired them full time to fill their interpreting needs.