Language Point has over 85 interpreters and translators who speak 40 languages from around the world.

Recruitment and Selection

All of our interpreters and translators undergo a strict recruitment process inline with Sunderland City Council's Recruitment Policy.  This includes: an application form, a comprehensive interview, terminology and language tests, two references, an enhanced CRB disclosure, and evidence of a professional interpretation or translation qualification, or a willingness to complete one of these.

Interpreters who successfully complete the recruitment process are then given a full induction.  During this stage, interpreters sign up to the Code of Practice, which covers issues such as impartiality, confidentiality and accuracy.  They are also told what professional standards are expected of them as an employee of the Council and reminded of our policies such as Equality.  Finally all interpreters are supplied with a Council Photographic ID badge, which should be presented on arrival at all appointments.

Once interpreters are in post with Language Point, they are expected to engage in continuous development.  They must attend two quarterly forums, where interpreters are updated on current issues and can raise any issues they may have.  Forums are attended by guest speakers from professional bodies, who can offer support, advice and training to interpreters.  In addition to these sessions, interpreters and translators are given access to training courses provided by the Council, as well as professional courses, such as the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI).

If you are a qualified interpreter and are interested in working for Language Point please ring (0191) 520 5504 for an application pack, quoting reference number 4642.

Click here to view all jobs within Sunderland City Council, obtain application packs and learn more about Sunderland City Council’s Recruitment and Selection procedure.

Why Use Professional Interpreting and Translation Services?

In order to communicate effectively with people who don't speak English or who have a degree of hearing or sight loss, it is essential that a high quality, professional interpretation and translation service is used. 

Using a professional interpreter enables clear and effective communication between a professional and client, which ensures both parties fully understand what is being said and allows conclusions and decisions to be reached quickly.  It can reduce the amount of time taken to engage with the client and create efficiencies as it is less likely that appointments will be missed or cancelled.

Language Point's professional interpreters and translators are bound by terms and conditions of employment which include accuracy, remaining impartial, and confidentiality.  Confidentiality can not always be guaranteed when using anyone other than a professional interpreter.  Language Point interpreters will only breach confidentiality when the client or another individual or group is at serious risk.

Why Not Use a Family Member of Friend as the Interpreter?

When using a friend or family member as an interpreter it is unlikely that they will act impartially.  Professional interpreters are trained to act impartially and will not take sides or act as an advocate, but will remain as the language bridge between the two parties.

A friend or family member may not have the level of understanding or verbal ability to be able to accurately relay complex information to your client, and may interpret incorrect or partial information.  They may also withhold information from the client or professional.  

There are also a number of instances when using a friend of family member could actually be dangerous. An example of this could be when dealing with a vulnerable adult and they can not disclose an issue to the professional in front of someone they know.

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Cassaton House, 43-49 Fawcett Street, Sunderland SR1 1RR, Tele: 0191 5661750 Fax: 0191 566 1751 E-mail languagepoint@sunderland.gov.uk