Translation and Interpreting Service

Southwark Council is committed to providing an interpretation and translation service that is free to residents who have difficulty communicating effectively in English, to enable them to access all services provided by the council.

The service provided is professional, confidential, and impartial and we hope sensitive to the needs of the individual. With access to experienced interpreters and translators in over 70 languages and dialects, it aims to reflect the cultural diversity of our residents.

Our Language Charter

Our Language Charter covers all communication needs, providing for the different languages and catering for the provision of information in large print, Braille and British Sign Language

To make sure you can access council services, we provide interpreting and translation support when

• Delivering our services to you face-to-face or by telephone
• When we are providing key information about council services
• When we are consulting with users and non-users to get their feedback

Getting help

If you visit one of the One Stop Shops or have an appointment to see a council officer, you can ask for an interpreter. We will arrange for them to interpret for you, either in person or over the phone. If an interpreter is not available we will arrange another appointment for you.

You can ask a council officer who is dealing with your enquiry for a translation of council letters or other council documents. If the document is very large, we may arrange for an interpreter to explain to you the information rather than arrange for a full translation. You can also ask a council officer to arrange for the conversion of council letters or documents into Braille, large print or audiotape.

Information using TexBox for those with hearing difficulties is also provided within the One Stop Shops.