All of our interpreters are bilingual and have years of interpreting experience – meaning that they are able to work quickly and effectively. Whether it’s a court appearance, a business conference or a tour of London, Woodfield Language Services can help!
We offer the following types of interpreting:
This is the most challenging type of interpreting, as it requires the interpreter to constantly interpret at the same time as the speaker. A simultaneous interpreter works in a soundproofed booth and uses specialist equipment; headsets and microphones which are connected to the speaker and the recipient. Two interpreters are required for simultaneous interpreting due to the intensity of the task. Each interpreter in the pair will interpret for 20-30 minutes before swapping with their partner. Very intensive, simultaneous interpreting is usually the most expensive option and requires the most experienced interpreters, but it is perfect for large conferences with many delegates where it’s not possible to pause the speaker to wait for interpretation.
The interpreter sits/stands with the individual requiring interpretation and (with the aid of notes) relays blocks of speech after the main speaker has finished speaking. The speaker must allow a pause every few minutes for the interpretation process to take place. Used in press conferences, presentations, working lunches etc., this type of interpreting requires no equipment bur it is not a suitable option if the speaker is unable to accommodate pauses in speech.
Whisper interpreting is used mostly in small/informal meetings or tour guide/factory visits, when there are only one or two individuals needing interpretation. The interpreter sits/stands with the individual/s requiring interpretation and whispers the interpretation to the individual/s. This can be an intensive task for the interpreter as they need to provide simultaneous interpretation and in certain cases (if the speaker was speaking for 20 minutes or more at a time), would also require two interpreters, to allow each interpreter to rest. This type of interpreting takes less time than consecutive as no pauses are required, but it can be disruptive to other individuals as there will be some background noise.
Most suitable for informal meetings, hospital and immigration related purposes, community interpreting is commonly used to assist at an Immigration Advisory Service, hospital, Job Centre or Citizen’s Advice Bureau. Often, the person who requires interpretation will be emotional and afraid and an interpreter sensitive to this is needed. The interpreter attends with the client and acts as a link between the two speakers. During court interpreting, the interpreter is usually required to clarify for the court attendees either the statements of the defendant or victim of a crime but there can be other requirements. Court interpreters can be requested by the police or a legal representative and can also be required to attend police stations when the accused is first arrested, and therefore this can mean unsociable working hours. A full CRB check is required during the vetting process for all court interpreters.
