Professional roles
Sign language interpreter
Sign language interpreters facilitate communication between users of British Sign Language (BSL) and users of spoken English. Interpreters will use their skill and knowledge of the 2 languages, and their understanding of any cultural differences that might exist between those for whom they are interpreting, to receive a message given in one language and pass it on in the other language.
Lipspeaker
Lipspeakers convey a speaker's message to lipreaders accurately using unvoiced speech. This requires the lipspeaker to produce the shapes of words with exceptional clarity. The lipspeaker also reproduces the rhythm and phrasing of speech as used by the speaker, and supports the message with facial expressions and natural gesture. It should be noted that natural gesture is defined as a manual indicator that would be readily understood by a deaf person with no knowledge of BSL. If the lipreader requests it, fingerspelling will also be used. The lipspeaker should negotiate the individual requirements of the lipreader at the start of the assignment.
Speech to text reporter
STTRs produce verbatim record of what is said, using a phonetic keyboard, to be shown instantly on a monitor or screen. The STTR provides a complete translation of the spoken words and environmental sounds, such as laughter and applause.
LSP - deafblind manual
LSPs – deafblind manual will, through the deafblind manual alphabet, relay at an appropriate speed, what is said by a third party to a deafblind person. The LSP – deafblind manual will also relay visual and other non-verbal information, for example reactions to what has been said, movement of other people and what they are doing.
Electronic notetaker
Electronic notetakers produce a typed summary record of what is spoken using a laptop computer. The advantage of an electronic notetaker is that they can usually get more information down as typing is much faster than writing. Some electronic notetakers have specialist software with Speedtext or stereotype and this allows them to have interaction with the client through linking two laptops or other technology together.
Electronic notetakers should not be confused with verbatim speech to text reporters (STTRs) who use a phonetic keyboard which provides a verbatim service. Electronic notetakers will provide a précis service.
Manual notetaker
Manual notetakers produce a written summary record of what is spoken, using paper and pens. The manual notetaker will highlight important points of the text, link the text with any handouts or tasks needed by the client and ensure the client is aware of any issues arising in the meeting or lecture.