Professionals working with newcomers rely on verbal and nonverbal communication as the primary tool for forming relationships with newcomers as well as obtaining information from them. However, language and cultural barriers can lead to miscommunication, which can further lead to frustration and act as an additional barrier to accessing needed and appropriate services. Using a professional interpreter can be essential to bridging the divide between communication barriers and interacting effectively with newcomers.

Not every interaction involving an interpreter is the same. The role of the individual utilizing the interpreter can vary depending on the setting (in-person, telephone, and group), language (spoken or signed language) and context of the interpretation.

This 2016 webinar discussed the following:

• Issues regarding confidentiality and privacy when using an interpreter
• Using interpreters when working with clients who have experienced trauma
• Using Interpreters in a medical setting
• The logistics of utilizing a spoken or signed language interpreter
• How factors such as culture and gender can influence interpretation and communication
• Working with interpreters in various settings

This webinar featured the following speakers:

1. Annette Floyd, RN(c), MPH, Clinical Coordinator, Bridge Clinic
2. Bryan Corry, Registered ASL-English Interpreter and Accredited Medical Interpreter
3. Mariana Martinez Vieyra, Med, RCC, Provincial Refugee Mental Health Coordinator, Vancouver Association of Survivors of Torture (VAST)
4. Michael Radano, Executive Director, Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC (STIBC)
5. Yolanda Salazar Hobrough, Head of School, Vancouver School of Interpreting and Translation
6. Young Joe, Certified Medical Interpreter and Executive Director of Bilinguals International