Zakon training were very pleased to present a seminar on “The Art of Police Interviewing for Interpreters” at Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln on 6 October 2016.
We in Zakon Training are only too well aware that there is a general lack of training and awareness amongst interpreters about what techniques police interviewers are trained in, and the legal and procedural requirements they should comply with.
Managing Director Simon Smith says “I have many years of experience as a police interviewer and police interview advisor behind me. What my experience has taught me is that the more the interviewers and fellow professionals know about each others’ roles, the better that is for the interests of justice”.
The day was put together and presented by Simon and Zakon Training’s Director of Training, Phil Parkinson. We had an audience of over 60 interpreters from all over the country, and comprising of both spoken and sign language interpreters.
The first session of the day was an overview of the type of interview training that police officers should typically receive, both for suspect and witness interviewing. This was followed by a session on questioning and we believe it is fair to say, those present were surprised by some of the implications of a poorly phrased or interpreted question, and the potential ramifications within the criminal justice system.
After lunch we had a session on legislative and procedural issues related to police interviewing, with particular focus on interpreter assisted interviews. This session provoked a great deal of debate amongst those present, with more than the odd quizzical eyebrow being raised at some of the legal and other requirements being placed on officers during investigative interviews.
The final session of the day was a case study that was based on our experiences of working with interpreters and some anecdotal accounts we have been given relating to various issues encountered by interpreters during their interactions with police, legal advisors, suspects, victims and witnesses.
Feedback received from the delegates shows that the case study session was the highlight of the day, and that was clear to see from the lively discussions that took place during this session!
We are grateful to all those that attended, and for the feedback and compliments that we received following the day. We have already given presentations at events as a direct result of this seminar, and have been approached to deliver a similar seminar in a different location for a group of interpreters. We are also in the process of planning further seminars and are very keen to make sure that we address areas of interest for interpreters that within our areas of expertise. We will be very pleased to receive any suggestions for future seminars or locations at info@zakon.co.uk.