The Essential Code of Conduct for Interpreters: A Professional Guide

Interpreting is a vital skill that bridges communication gaps in public services and community settings, particularly in healthcare, education, immigration, housing, social welfare, job centres, legal, education, and social services. For those starting or advancing their careers as interpreters, understanding and adhering to the code of conduct is essential.

The code not only guides interpreters in their professional conduct but also makes sure that services are delivered ethically and competently.

What is the Code of Conduct for Interpreters?

The code of conduct for interpreters outlines the ethical and professional guidelines interpreters must follow. These standards cover confidentiality, impartiality, accuracy, and professionalism, which are the core pillars of interpreting services. Interpreters are responsible for keeping sensitive information secure and making certain their interpreting is impartial and accurate.

Both the National Register of Public Service Interpreters (NRPSI) and the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) in the United Kingdom have played a key role in establishing the standards that public service interpreters are expected to adhere to. These standards provide accountability and protection for both the interpreter and the client.

The code also addresses the need for interpreters to avoid any potential conflicts of interest and to declare if they are unable to deliver a fair and accurate interpreting. Ensuring transparency with clients and upholding professional boundaries is crucial to maintaining trust and credibility in the profession.

Confidentiality in Interpreting

Confidentiality is a core principle for interpreters, especially when working in public services where sensitive information is frequently shared. Whether interpreting for a patient in a medical setting, during legal proceedings or any other setting, the interpreter must guarantee that no personal or confidential details are disclosed to unauthorised parties.

This principle is not only an ethical responsibility but also a legal one, with breaches of confidentiality potentially leading to serious consequences under UK law.

For example, interpreters working in healthcare must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which regulates how personal information is handled. Similarly, legal interpreters must be aware of their duties under the Data Protection Act 2018.

Interpreters are required to make certain that any notes or documents they handle during assignments are stored securely and / or destroyed appropriately when no longer needed.

Impartiality and Accuracy in Interpreting

Another critical aspect of the interpreter’s code of conduct is impartiality. Interpreters must deliver interpreting without bias, ensuring they do not allow their personal views, beliefs, or affiliations to influence their work. This is particularly important in legal and public service settings, where even the slightest indication of bias could undermine the integrity of the process.

Impartiality not only strengthens trust between the interpreter and the client but also upholds the credibility of the interpreting profession.

Accuracy is equally vital. Interpreters are expected to convey the meaning of the spoken or signed language accurately without adding, omitting, or distorting the message. Misinterpreting can have serious legal, medical, or social consequences, which is why interpreters must take extreme care to check and verify the precision of their work.

If an interpreter is unsure about the meaning of a particular term or phrase, it is essential to seek clarification rather than risk delivering inaccurate information.

Professionalism and Continuous Development

Professionalism in interpreting goes beyond ethical guidelines; it also encompasses punctuality, respect for clients, and effective communication skills. Interpreters must arrive prepared, meet deadlines, and follow the guidelines of the organisation(s) they are working with.

They should also remain calm and professional in challenging situations, demonstrating that they can be trusted to handle sensitive tasks with care.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is another aspect of the code of conduct. Interpreters are expected to engage in regular training to keep their skills up to date. The NRPSI and CIOL offer various CPD opportunities, ensuring interpreters stay informed about legislative changes, new interpreting techniques, and advances in technology.

Interpreters should make sure that they are providing the highest possible level of service to their customers by regularly updating their knowledge and knowledge base.