Interpreter Request Tips

Tips for Interpreter Request Inquiry

If you are sending an email:

Create an Appointment invitations on (insert date) 02/02 – with (insert your Department/Agency Name) – Subject of Email

Body/Content of Email:

Note Number of Interpreters Needed (i.e. 1 interpreter)

Note Type of Interpreters Needed and add type (i.e. 1 hearing interpreter, certified preferred, highly qualified accepted)

Date: (insert)

Time: (insert)

Location: (insert)

Customer Preference: Use of an American Sign Language Interpreter using mostly PSE (Pidgin Signed English).

Materials: Once confirmed, will share materials closer to the date of assignment (usually this is shared a week or day prior).

Point of contact on site: (insert name and preferred contact)

Note:
It is a good practice to have a list of preferred agencies and interpreters. You can also create a list of emergency contacts.

Always be sure you are aware of the Deaf, DeafBlind customers’ needs. Check with them prior to sending the request so that you will know their preference.

Always ask interpreters to show up 30 minutes – an hour before and add 30 minutes after in case if needed.

Role of GODHH:

We are only to guide you. We do not share a preferred list of agencies and or interpreters. We can connect you with someone if there’s a dire need so that the Deaf,DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing customer does not go without having access to an in person interpreter. Any questions or concerns you may contact us at gov.odhh@maryland.gov.