Safe communication, interpreters and privacy

Safe communication is essential because exploiters may pose as relatives, friends, employers, landlords, carers or interpreters. A person may not be safe to speak in front of these individuals.

The aim is not to force privacy at an unsafe moment. Follow the practice's approved processes: use authorised interpreters, check safe contact methods, give safeguarding advice and involve clinicians when needed.

Use interpreters safely

• Use approved interpreting services rather than companions for sensitive or clinical information wherever possible.
• Be cautious when a companion refuses an interpreter or says the patient is "not allowed" to speak to strangers.
• Do not assume limited English means exploitation; the concern is control combined with barriers to independent communication.
• Record interpreter issues, including refusal, who interpreted, and whether privacy was possible.

Protect privacy without increasing danger

• Seek privacy only when it can be done safely and according to local process.
• Do not ask detailed safeguarding questions in front of a possible controller
• Check safe contact before calling, texting, emailing or sending letters
• Escalate if safe contact is unclear, rather than guessing.

Reception staff may sometimes use a routine administrative reason or a clinician request to create an opportunity for private conversation, but this must follow local policy. Unsafe improvisation can increase risk if a companion becomes suspicious.

Limited English

A companion who insists on interpreting or blocks private communication may be part of the risk.