Behind Closed Doors: Navigating the Safety of Lone Working

Session description

Interpreters often work alone, whether visiting homes, travelling to unfamiliar locations, attending community assignments or working remotely without colleagues nearby. While most bookings pass without incident, unexpected circumstances can present safety concerns.

This workshop examines the practical decisions involved in lone working before, during and after an assignment. Through case studies and examples from professional experience, we will consider the risks associated with unfamiliar environments, threatening or aggressive behaviour, animals, other people on site and situations where immediate support is not available.

Participants will consider risk assessment, useful questions to ask agencies and clients, professional boundaries, responsibilities and relevant lone-working policies. We will also discuss remote working, making sure someone knows where you are, recognising when it may be appropriate to leave and reviewing incidents afterwards.

Who is this session for?

Qualified and trainee interpreters, particularly those who work alone, travel to unfamiliar locations or conduct home visits.

Learning outcomes

·         Develop a clearer understanding of the risks associated with lone working

·         Know what information to gather before accepting or attending an assignment

·         Consider practical ways of reducing risk when working in unfamiliar environments

·         Explore how to respond if behaviour becomes aggressive or a situation feels unsafe

·         Understand the role of policies, procedures, and professional boundaries in lone-working decisions

·         Reflect on your own current arrangements for community and remote work

·         Leave with practical steps you can apply to your own working practices

Trainer(s)

Gail Dixon and Sarah Glendenning

Structured CPD points: 5.5

Language of instruction: English (BSL interpretation available on request)

Cameras: On

Participation: Active

Recorded: No