The practice is able to provide an interpreter service for patients if required. Interpreter services are provided by Language Line Services.

A number of services are offered by Language Line including interpreter service either over the telephone for language interpretation or face to face for sign language and also translation of documents service.

If an interpreter is required practice staff will try to establish which part of the world the person is from. Staff will open the language identification card and show the person the languages listed. The message underneath each language says “point to your language. An interpreter will be called.”

Staff are able to telephone Language Line stating which language is required. A telephone (preferably with speaker but not necessary) will be available for the patient and member of staff . An interpreter will engage in a three way dialogue.