What do you do for RNID?

I am a sign language interpreter and interpret in different settings every day including meetings, medical appointments, training, interview, amongst many others.

Describe a typical working day.

It’s very hard to describe a typical working day as each one is very different.  I may be in London Bridge at Guys hospital in the morning and then Whittington hospital in the afternoon or indeed a conference at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre all day.  The most interesting work I’ve done has been in places such as House of Commons, Buckingham Palace and the National Film theatre.

What do you enjoy most about working for RNID?

I enjoy the variety of work available to me as an interpreter and working with the team of interpreters here at RNID.

What qualifications or experience help to get a job like yours?

To work as an interpreter, you need to have passed NVQ Level 4 in BSL and BSL/Eng interpreting.  This involves many years of study including interpreting courses and obtaining fluency in BSL and English.

Any advice for people if they want a similar job?

Being an interpreter is not only about knowledge of BSL and English, it also requires other areas of learning, including processes in interpreting, cultural mediation, co-working, professional and ethical dilemmas, preparation amongst others.  If you’re starting out, get involved in the deaf community and get on a Level 1 BSL course.