This page is under construction and will be updated shortly. As our society becomes more diverse, so do the needs of those who require health services. This affects the way in which we provide those services.

NI HSC Interpreting Service: 02890 563794

or email: interpreting@belfasttrust.hscni.net

The moral and ethical reasons for providing interpreters for people whose first language is not English include: 

equal access to services and to information,

user satisfaction

improved use of resources – human, financial, time resources

increased belief in a professional service

In terms of legal obligations, Health and Social Care organisations have statutory obligations under legislation: 

Race Relations (NI) Order 1997

Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998

Children’s (NI) Order 1995

Mental Health (NI) Order 1986

European Race Directive

Human Rights Act 1998 – Freedom of Expression under Article 10