Sign language interpreting is a challenging profession, often described as an 'emotional rollercoaster' by those in the field. This unique and vital role can be incredibly demanding, yet it remains an under-supported and under-appreciated profession.
Dr. Sally Gillespie, an experienced interpreter and project coordinator at Queen's University Belfast (QUB), sheds light on the struggles faced by sign language interpreters. With only 44 registered interpreters in Northern Ireland, the demand for their services far exceeds the supply. This scarcity of interpreters often leads to them being called upon for highly emotional and urgent situations, sometimes with little to no notice.
But here's where it gets controversial: the emotional toll of such a demanding role. Interpreters find themselves navigating between joyous occasions like christenings and life-or-death situations in hospitals, all while managing the pressure of limited resources and support.
Dr. Gillespie emphasizes the struggle to invest in and grow the next generation of interpreters, a challenge that has persisted for years.
In a positive development, the Sign Language Bill introduced at Stormont aims to officially recognize and promote British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in Northern Ireland. Funded by the Department for Communities (DfC), a new course at QUB is addressing the interpreter shortage, with newly qualified interpreters set to graduate next year.
Among the students is Caroline Doherty, a deaf student already fluent in both BSL and ISL. Caroline's motivation to gain a formal qualification stems from her desire to help friends in the deaf community who face barriers in accessing services.
Caroline highlights the indigenous understanding of the language that deaf people possess, a unique perspective that can drive change and influence.
"We can share our skills, learn from each other, and gain a deeper understanding of the interpreting profession," she says.
The course's cohort of 17 students is a diverse mix, including BSL and ISL users, qualified and aspiring interpreters, and both deaf and hearing students. Caroline is one of five deaf students taking part, and she expresses the value she finds in the course: "It's the first time I've felt equal to my hearing colleagues."
However, the challenges faced by the deaf community in accessing services are still prevalent. Caroline recently had a medical appointment canceled four times due to a lack of available interpreters.
"I don't think that's fair. I can't live my life like this. I work full-time, I contribute to society, and I pay my taxes. I deserve the same rights as everyone else."
Konrad Cheng, another student on the course, joined in memory of his aunt, who was deaf and often struggled with service access.
"She lived her entire life without proper access to communication. No one really acknowledged her or remembered her. I feel like this course is a personal journey to honor her life."
Initially overwhelmed by the diverse mix of students, Konrad now describes the course as a "great learning process." He values the opportunity to learn from his peers and qualified interpreters, gaining insights into their careers and approaches.
Sarah Garvey, a qualified interpreter, echoes the sentiment that the profession can be an emotional rollercoaster. She highlights the issue of limited numbers, which often leads to interpreters taking on too many jobs or finding themselves in unsupported situations.
"There's a wealth of experiences, opportunities, and perspectives within our cohort. I hope we can make a positive difference for the community moving forward."
The challenges faced by sign language interpreters and the deaf community highlight the importance of recognizing and supporting this vital profession. With the introduction of the Sign Language Bill and courses like the one at QUB, there is hope for a brighter and more inclusive future.
