English as an additional language (EAL) for Early Years

What is Language Line?

Language Line is a telephone interpreting service that connects via telephone individuals who wish to speak to each other but do not share a common language. The telephone interpreter converts the spoken language from one language to another, enabling listeners and speakers to understand each other.

Why we sometimes need to use professional interpreters

If it is clear an interpreter is required, then it is strongly recommended a professional interpreter be used. Failure to provide, or failure to provide the right standards of interpretation, could lead to worse outcomes and ultimately higher costs for both service users and your organisation. Research shows using friends, family members (it is always inappropriate to use children) or untrained/unqualified interpreters often risks compromising accuracy, misinterpretations, neutrality, omissions, additions and may result in breaches of confidentiality.

Language Line uses professional qualified interpreters ensuring both parties are able to communicate their needs clearly.

It is important to consider/provide a Language Line interpreter when:

• A non-English speaker indicates that an interpreter is needed
• The person does not appear to understand what you have said
• The person cannot communicate fluently in English
• In some cultures it may be polite to say yes even if the question s not understood

Telephone interpreters (Language Line) can be used for:

• Obtaining accurate essential information prior to admission
• Routine noncomplex meetings
• Short interviews, including unplanned emergencies
• Giving updates on progress
• Reminders of pre booked appointments
• Contacting parents at home
• Cancelling or explaining events
• Accessing languages that are difficult to source

How much does it cost?

This service is FREE to all early years providers in the private, voluntary and independent sector including childminders. The actual cost of using language line is paid for by Norfolk County Council Early Years Team. Telephone interpreters are charged per minute of interpreting and it is important you make sure you contact the Early Years Advice Line following any use of this service to inform them of the actual time of any conversations.

Information you will need when using Language Line

• Access code - available from the early years advice line
• Name of your organisation
• Your name and language needed
• Your clients telephone number, if they are not with you
• Context of the conversation

How to use the telephone interpreting service

The non-English speaker IS with you:

1. Dial 0800 169 2694
2. Give ID code and organisation name to operator
3. Request language
4. Non-English speaker connected to interpreter

The non-English speaker is NOT with you:

1. Dial 0800 169 2694
2. Give ID code and organisation name to operator
3. Request language
4. Give non-English speaker's phone no. to operator
5. Operator calls non-English speaker
6. Non-English speaker connected to interpreter