To patient with limited English
“[Patient] I would like to use an interpreter over the telephone, rather than relying on [family] to do this. This means that [family] will be free to listen, ask questions, and support you. Would that be ok?”
To family carer
“Whilst I appreciate you helping [patient] by translating, I’d like to suggest that instead, we use a professional interpreter over the telephone. This is a free and confidential service where interpreters trained in medical terminology can interpret what I am saying. By using a professional interpreter, it also means that you will be able to concentrate on understanding the information, and you will be more able to ask questions and support [patient]. Does that sound alright?”