A Sample Suggested

CODE OF ETHICS & GUIDELINES

FOR INTERPRETERS/SIGNERS IN RELIGIOUS SETTINGS

[This is only a sample...Your circumstances may need a different set of guidelines]

Following are recommended guidelines to help protect the deaf consumer(s) and the interpreter/signer. These guidelines are to help prevent animosity and misunderstanding by assuming other roles than an interpreter/signer.

1. The interpreter/signer will faithfully render the message giving its intent and will relay everything in the manner and spirit that the speaker intended.

2. The interpreter/signer will not counsel, instruct, or interject personal opinions related to the interpreted message. The interpreter/signer is solely to facilitate an equal communication in an objective and unbiased manner.

3. The interpreter/signer will keep all religious or related interpreted situations strictly confidential.

4. The interpreter/signer will use the preferred language or communication mode or preference of the person(s) for whom they are interpreting for. They will do this to the best of their skill, knowledge, and ability.

5. The interpreter/signer will only accept and interpret in religious situations that they are qualified to do. ( Eg. - more involved religious situations such as evangelistic meetings need a well-qualified interpreter.)

6. All religious interpreters/signers will treat their colleagues with respect and professional courtesy.

7. The interpreter/signer will try to improve skills and knowledge with further training at workshops, etc. and in association with the deaf.

8. The interpreter/signer will conduct themselves in a professional manner in all situations.

9. The interpreter/signer will dress tastefully and with restful colors contrasting with the skin color. (no stripes, checks, and flowered prints, etc.)

10. To avoid confusion, interpreters/signers should prepare for their assignments, by informing themselves of the content of what will be presented. (eg. -The order of the program, special music, audio or visual presentations, etc.

11. It is wise to avoid interpreting in a situation where the emotions of the interpreter/signer might be too strong to allow the spirit of the speaker to flow through the interpreter/signer.

INTERPRETER/SIGNER AS PERSONAL FRIEND

In some religious situations the interpreter/signer may also be a personal friend of the deaf consumer(s). These guidelines then should be followed.

a) The interpreter/signer respects the privacy of the deaf consumer's family, time, home, etc.

b) The deaf consumer respects the time of the interpreter/signer. They do not make demands on the interpreter/signers private time unless they go out as two families together.

c) The interpreter/signer's spouse must feel comfortable with the deaf and not left to feel left out. This can only lead to jealous feelings and alienation in the family. This must not be allowed to occur.

d) Fellow church members should be encouraged to take up signing to become friends of, and be a support to, deaf church members. These people do not need to become the interpreter/signer's.

e) If situations arise where counselling is needed, the interpreter/signer should make referrals to the proper professionals. They should not assume the role of a professional counsellor. (eg.- in the areas of family, medical, legal, finance and marriage)