Translations

The National Interpreting Service

The Council, via the National Interpreting Service, offers a translation service upon request or need. The service is available at point of contact - for example, when speaking to a council officer - or for translation of council literature such as forms, leaflets or the council's newspaper, Barnsley Matters.

Eligibility

Anyone who does not understand, or who is not sufficiently fluent in, English will either have a translator called on their behalf or can have someone request a translator/translation for them.

Procedure

 

If you want a translation of a document, you should contact the number given on that document. This will then be taken up by the appropriate Council officer. The length of time it will take to translate depends on the language and size of the document.

You will be informed at the time how long the translation is expected to take.

At face-to-face meetings, a translator will be available over the phone if one has already been requested or if it becomes apparent during contact that one may be required. one will be arranged.

 

Helplines

The contact number for translation of documents will be available on the document. Otherwise, call Barnsley Council on 01226 770770.

Charges/Fees

There is no charge for this service.

Method of Payments Available

Not applicable.

Opening Times/Locations

Translations are available during the opening hours of the specified council office/department.

How the customer can help

Where possible, advance notice of translation requirements (language/time/location) would be appreciated.

Application Form References

Not applicable.

Leaflets

None.

Distribution Points

Not applicable.

Legislation

Race Relations Act 1976, as amended by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000.

Response times/Next steps

Response times for the translation of documents will vary dependent on the language and the size of the document. Face-to-face translations should be available at all times at point of contact.

Out of hours procedures

 

Because of the nature of translation services, there is no provision for out of office hours provision. However, requests can still be made via email to barnsleyconnects@barnsley.gov.uk

 

Owner officer contact details

 

communications@barnsley.gov.uk

 

Additional notes

There will be a charge for people who want translations for purposes other than for someone within the borough with an inability to understand English - for example, for use as teaching aids, for friends abroad, and so on.

Frequently asked questions

What languages are available?

All the most common minority languages spoken in the borough of Barnsley are available - Polish, Urdu, Albanian, Russian, Chinese, Braille, Hindi, Punjabi.

Related Links:

• Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000
• Commission for Racial Equality

Last modified on 16/9/2008