Saskatchewan Deaf and
Hard of Hearing Services Inc.
In North America, English is the primary language used by society. The Deaf community primarily communicates in American Sign Language (ASL) and only a small segment of that population is actually bi-lingual. ASL is a complex visual language that cannot be written down on paper. Our interpreters facilitate communication between two parties; a deaf and hearing client. Therefore, both individuals need the services of the interpreter. When dealing with people who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, or hard of hearing, communication must be accessible and meaningful to both parties. The best way to ensure this is to have a professional Interpreter.
Who is required to pay for an interpreter?
SDHHS receives core funding to fulfill certain essential services within the province of Saskatchewan. This core funding can in some instances subsidize our fee for service structure. Whenever possible, SDHHS endeavors to provide cost effective services which will be negotiated at the time of the request for service.
Isn't it expensive to provide interpreting services?
Interpreting services should be budgeted as part of your annual planning for accessibility services. It is true that, on a per-encounter basis, you may pay more
for interpreting services than you generate in revenue for your company. However, if you consider the cost over the course of a year as an overhead cost of doing business, providing access is quite reasonable. It is not uncommon for public buildings to be wheelchair accessible for those who have mobility impairment. The same principle applies to being accessible in a communication sense although it is not a one-time expenditure.
Why do I have to have two interpreters for my assignment?
Interpreting is a very taxing activity, both mentally and physically. Research has shown that an interpreter's ability to mentally process the message and interpret it accurately diminishes drastically after approximately 20 minutes of interpreting. Additionally, the rate of repetitive motion injuries among sign language interpreters is very high. Therefore, when an assignment is over 2 hours, two interpreters will be scheduled; they will relieve each other approximately every 20 minutes, to ensure that the message is interpreted accurately for the full length of your assignment.
Other information regarding Interpreters
Regular interpreting service rates are $40 per hour (travel time is also charged at the same rate). There is a minimum of a 1.5 hour call-out
charge for services, for a minimum charge of $60 per assignment.
Rates for after-business hours and weekends are $50 per hour, with a minimum of a 2 hour call-out charge for services, for a minimum
charge of $100.
Assignment cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged as services rendered.
If travel is required, mileage rates are $ .38/km.
Someone in my office knows sign language. Can’t a family member or friend help out? Can I have that person interpret for us?