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6 <br /> i. Can fluently and effectively communicate in both English <br /> and the primary language of the LEP individual <br /> ii. Can accurately and impartially interpret to and from such <br /> languages and English <br /> iii. Has a basic knowledge of specialized terms and concepts <br /> used frequently in the provision of the agency's services <br /> iv. Demonstrates cultural competency <br /> V. Understands the obligation to maintain confidently <br /> vi. Understands the roles of interpreters and the ethics <br /> associated with being an interpreter <br /> The agency ensures the competency of bilingual staff and <br /> interpreters through a Spanish Assessment Tool that measures both <br /> linguistic aptitude and cultural competency. Language Line <br /> interpreters are independently trained and certified. <br /> b. When staff members have reason to believe that an interpreter is <br /> not qualified or properly trained to serve as an interpreter, the staff <br /> member will request another interpreter. <br /> 4. Using Family Members or Friends as Interpreters <br /> a. Applicants/recipients may provide their own interpreter; however <br /> the agency will not require them to do so. <br /> b. The agency will first inform an LEP person, in the primary <br /> language of the LEP person, of the right to free interpreter services <br /> and the potential problems for ineffective communication. If the <br /> LEP person declines such services and requests the use of a family <br /> member or friend, the agency may utilize the family member or <br /> friend to interpret only if the use of such person would not <br /> compromise the effectiveness or services or violate the LEP <br /> person's confidentiality. The agency will monitor these <br /> interactions and again offer interpreter services, if it appears there <br /> are problems with this arrangement. <br /> C. The agency will indicate in the LEP individual's file that an offer <br /> of interpreter services was made and rejected; that the individual <br /> was informed of potential problems associated with using friends <br /> or family members and the name of the person serving as an <br /> interpreter at the LEP individual's request. <br /> d. Only under extenuating circumstances shall the agency allow a <br /> minor(under the age of 18 years) to temporarily act as an <br /> interpreter. The agency will keep a written record of when it has <br /> used a minor as an interpreter, and this information will be shared <br /> 5 <br />