| I would like to be listed
on the NRPSI, how do I do this?
Please click here to download the application
form. |
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| I am bilingual so can
I join the NRPSI?
Being bilingual is an excellent skill to have, but this alone does
not qualify you to be listed on the NRPSI - you must meet the entry
requirements as stated under the new applications process. |
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| I do not have a relevant
qualification to be listed on the NRPSI. What should I do?
If you do not have a degree partly studied in English (or whatever
is the second language) with an interpreting and translation component
then you can apply for one of the following:
- Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI), info@iol.org.uk
or Tel: 020 7940 3163
- Metropolitan Police Test (Met test), language.services@iol.org.uk
or Tel: 020 7940 3165/3167
- Or an MA in Interpreting from any University (please refer to
criteria for entry)
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Which Public Service Interpreting
qualification would be best for me?
This depends on what type of interpreting you wish to do. There are
courses leading to all four specialised options of the DPSI (English
Law, Scottish Law, Health and Local Government related services),
which aim to prepare you in knowledge of the particular services,
their procedures and terminology. Many interpreters take more than
one option to give themselves a wider range of professional work.
The Metropolitan Police Test deals with only Police contexts and Police
terminology. |
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How long will my application
take to process?
Approximately eight weeks but longer if: 1) the application form is
incomplete, 2) additional material is needed 3) additional references
are required or if the referees take a while in responding. |
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How often does the Selection
Panel meet to approve applications?
The Selection Panel meet once a month to approve applications. |
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I have a problem supplying two
references with regard to interpreting. What should I do?
One reference should be from someone for whom you have worked as a
Public Service Interpreter, and the other reference can be from a
past/present employer or DPSI tutor. After six months registration
you will be requested to supply the contact details of an additional
referee who knows you as a Public Service Interpreter. |
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| I do not have a clean
security clearance, can I still apply?
You will need to complete the application form and forward to us
with the requisite information. The Selection Panel will view your
whole file including your security clearance letter and will decide
if it is acceptable based on the information provided. Please note
that all security clearance letters are kept confidential. |
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Once I am listed on the National
Register, how much work can I expect from the being listed?
The NRPSI Ltd's role is to maintain a register of Public Service Interpreters.
The Register is despatched to subscribers (Public Service organisations
and agencies that they work through) who will contact you direct for
work. The National Register cannot guarantee a steady source of income. |
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| When can I upgrade my
language listing(s)?
You can upgrade at any time of the year (once you have met the requirements
for full status). Please send your request in writing with the requisite
material (i.e. proof of PSI experience or evidence that you have
passed a PSI qualification). |
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How much does it cost to upgrade
my listing(s)?
There is currently no fee charged to interpreters to upgrade. However,
an administration charge may be payable in future if the upgrade is
requested outside the annual registration period. |
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What should I do if I change
my address or contact numbers?
You must inform us in writing as soon as possible in order for your
record to be amended. |
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Do you publish guidelines
on fees to interpreters?
No. Some organisations produce their own guidelines. Click the following
to access relevant information from NUPIT
(National Union of Professional Interpreters and Translators). |
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Can you help me with a dispute
regarding fees?
This is a different element of the profession.
Click the following to access relevant information from NUPIT
(National Union of Professional Interpreters and Translators). |
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What is the difference
between an Interpreter and a Translator?
The distinct definition is: An Interpreter is a person who translates
the meaning of the spoken word from one language to another. A Translator
is a person who translates the written word from one language to another.
In some countries Interpreter is also taken to mean translator (i.e.
Russia e.g. since presumably the same is true of other countries). |
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How
does the National Register differ from an agency?
The National Register does not commission interpreters as an agency
would. Therefore public service organisations that subscribe to
the National Register save on unnecessary agency charges and interpreters
are able to negotiate their pay directly with the public service.
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