NUBSLI is pleased to announce that following its #ScrapTheFramework campaign, the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has delayed tendering the National Framework for language services until after the general election.
Framework not fit for purpose
NUBSLI has been making representations to the CCS as we believe that the framework is not fit for purpose and would not have worked. Any national system of supplying interpreters and translators needs full and proper consultation with the Deaf and interpreting communities.
Other frameworks such as the one by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) have driven down fees to unsustainable levels, used unqualified personnel and caused professional interpreters and translators to leave the profession. Many are still boycotting this framework and refuse to work for the MoJ via Capita, the only supplier for this framework.
Interpreters, translators and Deaf community campaign against the Framework
NUBSLI has worked very hard to raise the serious concerns we have had with the current draft framework and last year launched our #ScrapTheFramework campaign after early representations were ignored.
Interpreters, translators and the Deaf community took action by writing to their MPs, by signing the open letter which got over 1,000 signatories and by raising awareness with other interpreters, translators and the wider Deaf community.
NUBSLI represents 30% of the British Sign Language/English interpreters and translators and is Britain’s fastest growing union. We thank our members and the Deaf community for all their support so far of our campaign. The work continues.
NUBSLI will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that any future public sector interpreting/translation service pays sustainable rates to interpreters, is fit for purpose and ensures quality services for the Deaf community. We would also like to thank the MPs who have supported the campaign and look forward to their continued support after the general election.
The future of interpreting
We ask that after the election, the next government conducts a full public consultation with interpreters, translators and Deaf people to ensure that interpreting/translation provision for Deaf people is done in a way that is workable, safe and ensures quality interpreting and translation services.
Any government should understand that interpreting/translation provision is not only necessary for Deaf people, but enables statutory services and government departments to complete their duties such as health, mental health, police courts and social services.