ISANS Interpreters: An Essential Workforce!

Language interpretation is an essential service for many newcomers, especially for those with limited English language proficiency. In the past year, ISANS interpreters enabled 750 newcomers to access and engage in services essential to their settlement journey. These interpreters supported the communication between clients and staff in many key areas, including refugee resettlement, health, orientation, language training, employment, community connections, bridging programs, and more.

Language interpretation, also called “three-way communication,” involves two languages and a minimum of three or more people. The interpreters’ role is to assist service providers and clients so that the two can communicate with each other. When using interpretation, communication happens through the interpreter. This means the interpreter uses their voice to replicate what each party is saying with as much accuracy as possible.

ISANS interpreters support every service team at ISANS across all program areas, and they work directly with staff and clients. In fact, they are essential to our work, which makes them a critical link when delivering services to clients with limited English or French language proficiency. Interpreters work, communicate, and interact at the same time with both staff and clients, which takes a tremendous amount of skill and effort. Interpreting is both an art and a science, calling for the right knowledge, competency, and communication skills to accomplish this multi-faceted role.

ISANS interpreters bring the spoken words of different languages to life! They enable staff and clients to understand each other and work together. Interpretation happens through an interpreter, but it’s not about them – it’s all about the parties the interpreter is helping. Interpreters are the essential voice that allow newcomer clients to communicate and to benefit from the services they need to support their settlement journey in Nova Scotia.