Accessing the Council

Translation and Interpretation Service

Documents prepared by the council are available in large print, Braille, on audio cassette or computer disk.

We can also provide information in languages other than English.  The council is registered with "Language Line" to ensure our services are accessible to ALL our customers.

As the local Council we know that for many people living and working in the area language is a significant barrier that may limit their ability to communicate with us and access services and information.

The council aims to make communicating with all customers as easy and effective as possible. We recognise in many cases asking friends and family to act as interpreters, may not be appropriate, especially if personal, confidential or technical issues are involved.

When the customer is non-English speaking or wishes to communicate in a language they are more comfortable with, we will accommodate this quickly and with minimal inconvenience using professional translation services.

• The service is available to anyone that requires it to access information about the council or access our services
• This service is to be used for Council business only
• Documents will be produced in alternative languages or formats on a request only basis or as agreed with the Equality Adviser
• Summary papers may be produced for lengthy documents

Key Local Languages

Chester's population is diverse and we are still learning about local language needs, however some of the main languages (including the more common dialects) in use locally are:

• Bengali (Dialect - Sylhet sensitive) 
• Chinese (Dialects - Cantonese (1) Mandarin (2))
• Arabic
• Hindi
• Urdu

Monitoring and Review

We are still learning about the needs of our diverse local communities including what languages are spoken locally.   What we do know is that language is a significant barrier for many non-English people living in this area. 

We will review the translation and interpretation services we offer and listen to feedback, to ensure we continually improve our services and get the best possible service for ALL our customers.

Useful Contacts

The Council's Access Officer can be contacted on 01244 402455  or email disabilityaccess@chester.gov.uk

Council is registered with Language Line to provide translation and interpretation services.  Language Line can be contacted on 020 750 1430 or email enquiries@languageline.co.uk. Or visit their website http://www.languageline.co.uk/ (external link)