Guideline 9: Family carers as interpreters

Respect Yusuf's wishes to interpet for Maha, and kindly ask the interpreter to leave.

Whilst Yusuf may be capable of interpeting for Maha, it is not ideal for him to do so. He may not know accurate translations for medical terminology or may change the information to protect Maha. Additionally, by interpreting, Yusef may be less able to focus on providing support to Maha during the consultation.

Explain that the interpreter is for your benefit as well, so you are assured that Maha is getting accurately translated medical information. Explain they you wouldn't normally expect family members to translate these terms.

Emphasising your need for an interpreter may make it easier for Yusuf to accept the use of the interpreter in this consultation. Explaining that this is standard procedure may prevent Yusuf from feeling humiliated

Ask Yusuf and Maha if they would prefer to use a telephone interpreter.

Face-to-face interpreters are preferred to anonymous telephone interpreters, however they are a good alternative if the family comes from a small community and are likely to encounter the interpreter socially. It would be a good idea to ask Yusuf why he doesn't want Hanna to interpret, before offering this alternative.

Respectfully ask Yusuf why he doesn't want the professional interpreter in the consultation.

Understanding why Yusuf is opposed to the use of an interpreter will help you to address his specific concerns and overcome his resistance to the use of a professional interpreter.