Translation Procedure
Face to face customers
Where possible we encourage customers to come in to Dover
Gateway with an English speaking friend or
relative. If the customer does not have an English speaking
friend or relative we ask them to point to their language on our
translated poster. At this point we will direct customers to a
member of staff from the Migrant
Helpline who are based at Dover Gateway and can assist
with translation.
If the Migrant Helpline member of staff is not available we will
use a telephone translation service to either deal with the
customers needs immediately or to make an appointment to return at
another time.
The Migrant helpline invite non-English speaking customers to
special surgeries that they host providing an excellent service to
our customers. They also provide advice and support and
encourage customers to learn to speak English by providing
information on where they can attend courses.
Documents
When requested and where reasonable we will translate our
documents into any language required.
Website
We use Microsoft translator on our website which translates the
site immediately into 30 languages. This has been tested by a
member of staff from the Migrant Helpline and has found to be an
adequate translation tool.
In addition to this we have translated the following help text
plus a link to a Google Map into a number of languages:
Ask for help
We are committed to providing interpreting
services to our residents who cannot speak or read English.
However, we recommend that you always try to find a friend or
relative who can speak or read English to help you with your
enquiry initially. It will help both us and yourself to deal with
your needs more effectively.
We can translate information
Where reasonable we can translate documents
into a number of languages on request. We will also provide large
print or audio tape versions for residents with visual
impairments.
Our Area Office Team can arrange
translations while you wait.
This service is available at:
Dover
Gateway
71 Castle Street
Dover CT16 1PD
Contact
Dover Gateway
71 Castle Street
Dover CT16 1PD
Gateway Map
Tel: 01304 821199
Email: customerservices@dover.gov.uk
