AQW 8558/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health what action his Department is taking to review the pay rate for NHS interpreters.
Asked by John Blair MLA on 11 March 2024
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 11 March 2024
- Answer due by
- 27 March 2024
- Answered
- 26 March 202415 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
Face-to-face spoken language interpreters are independent self-employed contractors who are not employed by the Health and Social Care (HSC) service but are paid for their service through the Business Services Organisation (BSO) at an agreed rate.
HSC Interpreters must be registered with BSO and adhere to the HSC Terms of Engagement. This stipulates an hourly rate of pay as well as a preparation payment.
The Department is aware that pay has not increased for a number of years and the impact this is having on the valuable service that interpreters provide. You will, however, be aware of the significant financial constraints within the wider Health Service.
There has been a number of correspondences to my office regarding this issue. As a result, I have asked the Strategic Planning and Performance Group to review the rate of pay for interpreters.
I will endeavour to do the best I can to come to a suitable resolution.