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KEY TO KNOW
TRAINER ADVICE are influenced by your culture . Your conversation with survivors can therefore start from there , with the adoption of a respectful curiosity and open approach that acknowledges everyone is different , and that the survivor ’ s background is significant to him . This starting point can enable the helper and the survivor to have a discussion that is culturally sensitive .
Advice to trainers
Interpreters play a vital role when helpers and survivors do not share a common language or culture . Interpreters should translate the exact words of the helper or survivor and should not interpret what he meant to say . They have a duty to respect the confidentiality of what is said .
Sometimes survivors are not aware of these rules , and it is therefore important to explain them at the start of the conversation and check they have been understood .
Although the interpreter is independent and does not contribute to the content of conversations , the helper and interpreter may find it useful to talk beforehand . The helper may need to explain some background elements , indicate the broad purposes of the conversation , or signal that elements of the conversation may be sensitive and receive possible input from the interpreter ..
REFLECTION QUESTION
Questions to reflect on
• In what ways might cultural attitudes impede the delivery of help and support to survivors ?
• Consider the differences between your culture and the culture of survivors you work with . How do these differences affect your work ?
2.7.5 Working with interpreters
Aim . To make helpers and interpreters aware of their different roles and how to prepare before meeting a survivor .
Interpreters play a vital role when a helper and a survivor do not share a common language . The interpreter must be a partner in the conversation and translate in the same manner for the helper and for the survivor . That is , translate as closely and verbatim as possible , including using the first person (“ I ” not she or he when interpreting those present in the room ). The interpreter “ belongs ” to both parties in the room and will have to pay close attention to what they say and how they express their messages . Most people who work with asylum seekers will be familiar with interpretation and interpretation rules . Interpreters translate the exact words of the helper or survivor , and do not try to interpret what they meant to say ; and have a duty to respect the confidentiality of what is said . Sometimes survivors are not aware of these rules , and it is therefore important to explain them at the start of the conversation and check they have been understood .
Although the interpreter is independent and does not contribute to the content of conversations , the helper and interpreter may find it useful to talk before the conversation to prepare the interpreter , as well as meeting some minutes when the conversation is over in order to sum up and clarify possible misunderstandings etc . The helper may need to explain some background elements , indicate the broad purposes of the conversation , or signal that elements of the conversation may be sensitive . Make sure to explain to the survivor , the reason for the helper to talk to the interpreter after the session , to clarify that the talk is not about him as a person .