About the interpreter: Debbie Lawrence
- A Child of Deaf Adults (CODA)
- A native and fluent user of British Sign Language (BSL)
- Achieved a BSc(Hons) degree in Deaf Studies (Interpreting stream) from the University of Bristol
- Graduated with a a 1:1 class honours in 2008
2013 - Present
Became a Freelance BSL interpreter with continued specialisation in the legal domain as well as diversifying into other fields such as platform interpreting and working in mental health settings.
2010 - 2013:
Qualified as a Registered Sign Language Interpreter (RSLI) and specialised in legal interpreting; working in a wide variety of settings within HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) including family & civil, magistrates, crown courts, The Old Bailey, the Royal Courts of Justice and Tribunals. Built up extensive experience as a court interpreter and also working as part of the defence team with advocates to take instructions.
2008-2010:
Professional career started as an in-house Trainee Interpreter (TSLI), working in domains such as medical, education, community and office support, enabling effective communication between Deaf and hearing people.
Membership Bodies
- Registered Sign Language Interpreter (RSLI) with the National Register of Communication Profesionals working with Deaf and Deafblind people (NRCPD)
- Member of the National Union of British Sign Language Interpreters (NUBSLI) and support fair and transparent fees.
- Member of Association of Sign Language Interpreters (ASLI)
- Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) cover up to the value of £250,000
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) undertaken on a regular basis to ensure skills and knowledge are up to date.