Interpreting Challenge for Douzelage Conference Results in Community Languages Register

A call for help to the Dorset team of the Regional Language Network South West for volunteer interpreters has led to a drive to recruit linguists who are willing to give their time, use their language skills and act as welcome ambassadors and interpreters at community events involving international visitors.

Photograph: Philada Rogers (standing, 4th from left) and volunteer interpreters

The Douzelage Conference held in October 2006 in Sherborne prompted the rallying call when 140 delegates from the Douzelage community network of 20 member towns in 18 EU countries met at the Gryphon School, Dorset’s first Business and Enterprise School.

French volunteer interpretation was required and RLN SW colleagues in Bristol found three final year modern languages students from the University of the West of England who were keen to use their French with interpreting studies for the benefit of this international event.

The Regional Language Network was able to help and offer valuable work experience to the students as Philada Rogers, RLN SW business advisor explained. “There were no funds to support the activity, but here was this major community conference taking place that required a high standard of linguistic ability to ensure its success.

“It was a challenging experience for them all – a taste of what it feels like in a real life professional situation. One of the students, Karima Abidat has been so inspired, she has applied to continue her degree studies with a specialist interpreting course in Geneva to become a professional translator.”

Over the past few months students, native speakers, retired teachers and linguists among the business sector have expressed interest in the RLN SW Community Languages Register in recent months.

It is envisaged that the volunteer linguists could help with the hosting of civic receptions, activities staged by local clubs and in the organisation of international sporting events, such as sailing championships in Weymouth and Portland building up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

James Piriou, RLN SW Dorset & Wiltshire advisor added: “We foresee social and enjoyable opportunities for local people with linguistic skills to get involved. They can have fun using their language skills whilst at the same time, help to bring benefits to local business and community interests through language and cultural understanding.”

For further information and to register on the RLN SW Community Languages Register, contact RLN SW Dorset & Wiltshire business advisors, James Piriou on 01305 771920 or email: jamespiriou@yahoo.com or Philada Rogers on 01305 264297 or email: philada@icen.co.uk.

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