Independence for translators and interpreters in the UK

The Institute of Translation & Intepreting was founded in 1986 “as the only independent professional association of practising translators and interpreters in the United Kingdom”. Nowadays, it is a “primary source of information” on the subjects, serving the government, the industry, the media and the general public.

The objective of promoting “the highest standards in the profession” was established by this translators association. ITI is now “a meeting place” for everyone who care about and understand that translation and interpreting are relevant services that benefit both the economy and society itself. This importance has grown, particularly with the birth and expansion of one single European market that speaks over forty languages. Furthermore, the growth of worldwide communications added to the relevance of the profession.

ITI is happy to guide all those who are just starting the profession and provide advice not only to the ones who offer their services, but also to their customers.

Nowadays, this translation association has a “large and growing international membership of translators and interpreters”. Its members are not just in the United Kingdom but in continental Europe and other countries where English is commonly used, as well. Presently, that means “the world”.

The association is governed by a Council where practising translators and interpreters form a majority. Everyday business is managed by the institute’s office in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. This bureau is responsible for finances, strategies and ITI’s membership. It also provides information for members but also for the general public, including a “referral service for translation and interpreting work”.

There are different levels of membership available to suit translators and interpreters with different experience levels, “from newcomers to the industry to experienced professionals”.

All members will have to abide by the code of conduct established by the translators association. The ITI encourages every new member to take an active part in its life and events. There is a Corporate membership option available for educational, commercial and government bodies, as well as translation companies.

The ITI lists numerous benefits for members, from professional recognition to discounts.

As a member, you gain access to many deals on professional development courses but also the annual conference. Moreover, there are weekend workshops and seminars, invaluable opportunities to improve your knowledge and skills and to network with fellow professionals.

You will also receive a bi-monthly ITI bulletin, which is free for members, with reviews, recruitment news, advertising and updated insight on the “full range of developments in the language services industry”, including technology, new publications, reviews and “more light hearted contributions”. Non-members can subscribe to the journal as well.
Apart from the annual conference, which is held at a different location every time, with many international visitors, there is also an opportunity for you to attend regional group meetings and participate in subject network activities run by members.

The ITI has a directory with a list of Qualified, Fellows and Corporate members that you can benefit from, in order to widen “the range of your potential clients within private and public sector organisations, helping to market your services”. It makes cross-referral of assignments between colleagues easier.

Other benefits from being a member include 15 regional and 19 special interest network groups that support members and a special group concerning new members, a peer support scheme that gives advice and support to new members and those seeking extra guidance, discounted professional indemnity insurance, a legal helpline providing free advice of a wide range of legal matters, etc.

ITI members are also automatically represented in international organisations and various national language bodies.

The people in charge of this association say they are “continually reviewing and delivering benefits and services” to ITI’s members.

Keep in mind that English has 508 million native speakers. In the United Kingdom alone, there are around 55 million people whose mother tongue is English.

LEXIS INFORMS:
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