Representation and diversity in the sign language translation & interpreting profession in the UK
Authors
Napier, JeminaSkinner, Robert
Adam, Robert
Stone, Christopher
Pratt, Sandra
Hinton, Danny
Obasi, Chijoke
Issue Date
2022-09-30
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This paper reports the findings of a nationwide sign language translator and interpreter (SLTI) census to establish a baseline description of the UK’s SLTI workforce that was commissioned by the Association of Sign Language Interpreters UK. Complete responses were received from 690 practitioners from across the UK (43% of the potential sample). The survey responses were analysed using SPSS statistical software, specifically to look at various intersectional characteristics concerning gender, age, sexuality, race and ethnicity. This paper provides an overview of the findings with respect to two key themes: representation and diversity in the profession, along with discussion of the profile of the SLTI profession in the UK, and recommendations for actions for key stakeholder organisations. As a first snapshot, this census functions as a baseline for future comparisons, and can be modified and improved through open dialogue with professional and community groups. This snapshot helps us to identify gaps in representation. Finally, it can also inform the planning and forecasting of recruitment needs for the workforce and highlight any education and training needs.Citation
Napier, J., Skinner, R., Adam, R., Stone, C., Pratt, S., Hinton, D. and Obasi, C. (2022) Representation and diversity in the sign language translation & interpreting profession in the UK. Interpreting and Society, 2 (2), pp. 119-140.Publisher
SAGEJournal
Interpreting and SocietyAdditional Links
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/27523810221127596Type
Journal articleLanguage
enDescription
This is an accepted manuscript of an article published by SAGE on 30 Sept 2022. The accepted version of the publication may differ from the final published version.ISSN
2752-3810Sponsors
This research was funded by the Association of Sign Language Interpreters UK, with in-kind contributions from Heriot-Watt University, the University of Wolverhampton and the University of the West of Scotland.ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1177/27523810221127596
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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/