Table 1: Role of interpreters and link workers.

Interpreter and Translation Services	Link workers
To relate factual information in another language	Will provide telephone advice or, when required, attend to provide support in health settings.
Interpreters will convert speech from one language to another	Support staff to deliver culturally sensitive care and build staff capacity to support patients from minority ethnic communities
They will maintain confidentiality at all times	Tackle barriers to access and facilitate holistic person-centred care. Support patients and professionals to arrive at a shared understanding, which facilitates assessment, treatment and discharge processes.
They will have no contact with the patient out-with the interpreting session	Work with staff and patients on personal care needs, cultural concepts of mental health and information on any additional services to support patients/ carers to improve lifestyles and life circumstances
They may provide no guarantee of continuity with the same interpreter	Source culturally appropriate translated information resources or support the patient to understand English information resources
	Focus on empowering individuals/communities and reduce health inequalities and the stigma of mental ill-health
	Ensure the minority ethnic communities have equitable access to anticipatory healthcare and health promoting information
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week	Available Monday- Friday 09.00-17.00
Source: Lothian Health Board Minority Ethnic Health Inclusion Service