10.19.22 OUTBoard Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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(Note: The agency may use paid interpreters, qualified bilingual employees, qualified employees of other agencies or community resources. Telephone interpreter services should only be utilized as a back-up system or where other language assistance options are unavailable.) Interpreter Standards Those providing bilingual/interpretive services will meet the linguistic and cultural competency standards set forth below. The agency will ensure that interpreters and self- identified bilingual staff, have first been screened to ensure that the following standards are met before being used for interpreter services: • Can fluently and effectively communicate in both English and the primary language of the LEP individual • Can accurately and impartially interpret to and from such languages and English • Has basic knowledge of specialized terms and concepts used frequently by the agency's services • Demonstrates cultural competency • Understands the obligation to maintain confidently • Understands the roles of interpreters and the ethics associated with being an interpreter Describe how the agency ensures the competency of bilingual staff and interpreters: Orange County Transportation Service utilizes the services of the Orange County Human Rights and Relations. Additionally, the County contracts with translators for both in-person services and print materials. When staff members have reason to believe that an interpreter is not qualified or properly trained to serve as an interpreter, the staff member will request another interpreter. Using Family Members or Friends as Interpreters. Applicants/recipients may provide their own interpreter; however the agency will not require them to do so. The agency will first inform an LEP person, in the primary language of the LEP person, of the right to free interpreter services and the potential problems for ineffective communication. If the LEP person declines such services and requests the use of a family member or friend, the agency may utilize the family member or friend to interpret only if the use of such person would not compromise the effectiveness or services or violate the LEP person's confidentiality. The agency will monitor these interactions and again offer interpreter services, if it appears there are problems with this arrangement. The agency will indicate in the LEP individual's file that an offer of interpreter services was made and rejected; that the individual was informed of potential problems associated with using friends or family members and the name of the person serving as an interpreter at the LEP individual's request. Only under extenuating circumstances shall the agency allow a minor (under the age of 18 years) to temporarily act as an interpreter. The agency will keep a written record of when it has used a minor as an interpreter, and this information will be shared with the DHHS upon request. The agency will not require the applicant/recipient to pay for bilingual/interpretive services Use of Interpreters at Hearings An interpreter will be provided for all hearings if a party requests an interpreter or if the Hearing Officer determines that an interpreter is necessary. A separate oath or affirmation to translate accurately shall be administered to all interpreters. Provision of Written Translations