Interpreters are expected to have or to be working towards a recognised interpreting qualification and / or have relevant experience of interpreting.

The following must apply to all Clear Voice interpreters:

• Will interpret accurately and completely, without adding, omitting, or substituting. A summary can only be given with the consent of both parties.

• Strive to ensure that complete and effective communication takes place.

• Bring to the attention of all parties if any difficulties with dialects or technical terms arise. If these cannot be remedied, the interpreter should withdraw from the assignment.

• Maintain transparency. For example, when asking for clarification, an interpreter says to all parties, "I, the interpreter, did not understand, so I am going to ask for an explanation."

• Not discriminate against parties, either indirectly or directly, on any grounds.

• Maintain confidentiality and not disclose any information outside the interpreting session, except with the service user’s consent or if required by law.

• Be familiar with the cultural backgrounds of the people that they will be interpreting for.

• Not allow personal judgments or cultural values to influence objectivity.

• Demonstrate a commitment to continuing professional development.

• Manage the flow of communication. An interpreter may ask the speaker to pause or slow down.

• Not enter into discussion, give advice or express opinions of any of the parties.

• Use professional, culturally appropriate ways of showing respect.

• Alert all parties to any significant cultural misunderstanding that arises.

• Be honest and ethical.

• Be prepared for all pre-booked assignments if additional information is provided by the service user.

• Be accountable for professional performance.

• To act in a manner befitting the dignity of the profession and appropriate to the setting.

• Seek feedback to improve his or her performance.

• Respect the ethics and work practices of other professions.