What qualifications do you need?
You must know sign language and be able to use it to communicate with people fluently. You can learn the skill by taking courses at centres for the deaf or the Federation of Trade Unions.
What sort of person does the job suit?
It doesn't matter what kind of person you are because a sign language interpreter is only a medium. We only play the role of an interpreter. Our job nature is of a different nature from that of social workers, who need to do counselling work. We must be neutral in everything we do and it is best if we are unfamiliar with the individuals we help.
What's the best way into the industry?
This is a very small field. There are only about 10 sign language interpreters who have are registered with the High Court. I got into the industry by chance, as I had previously worked in a centre for the deaf as a programme worker and needed to learn sign language.