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Guidelines

Do

	Speak directly to the Deaf person, not to the interpreter during the assignment.
	Negotiate seating arrangements before the assignment starts.
	Make sure the Deaf person can see the interpreter and vice versa.
	Try to make sure there is no background noise, to allow the interpreter to hear the discussion.
	Send any useful information to the interpreter well before the appointment or meeting to give time for preparation.
	Remember the interpreter will interpret everything that is said or signed [even audible asides].
	Book more than one interpreter if the assignment is a formal setting and lasts more than an hour.
	Make time to discuss the interpreter's role before the start of the assignment.

Don't

	Allow more than one person to speak or sign at the same time.
	Expect an interpreter to work continuously for more than 30 to 45 minutes, and allow regular breaks.
	Ask the interpreter to take sides, give advice or other opinions during the assignment. The Interpreter's role is to remain neutral.
	Ask the interpreter for personal details whilst engaged in the interpreting task.

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