The Register of Irish Sign Language Interpreters (RISLI) has launched a public consultation on the RISLI policies. RISLI has reviewed and updated its CPD and Work Practice Policy. The CPD and Work Practice Policy outlines the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and work practice requirements that an interpreter needs to do, to maintain registration. This is a short summary of the draft policy. Please see for the link below for the full draft policy.
Continuing Professional Development is any learning or activity that helps you grow as a professional interpreter.
Structured CPD
This includes activities with clear learning goals (e.g. training courses). You should collect evidence of doing the training (e.g. attendance certificate)
Unstructured CPD
This includes informal learning activities (e.g. private study, volunteering on committees etc.). You do a Reflective Journal (e.g. 350–500 words, 3–5 min ISL video/voice note) explaining what you learned.
Deaf Community Engagement (DCE)
This is taking part in Deaf social, cultural, or community events (e.g. religious services). You should record a 3–5-minute ISL video describing the event and what you learned. This is for hearing interpreters only.
CPD Hours
You need to do a set number of CPD every 12 months.
· Deaf Interpreters should do:
o 12 hours Structured CPD
o 12 hours Unstructured CPD
· Hearing Interpreters should do
o 12 hours Structured CPD
o 6 hours Unstructured CPD
o 6 hours Deaf Community Engagement
You should keep a record of your CPD, this includes:
· Personal Learning Plan (says what you want to learn in the next 12 months)
· Evidence of Attendance (for Structured CPD)
· Reflective Journal (for Unstructured CPD)
· ISL Video Diary (for Deaf Community Engagement – hearing interpreters only)
· CPD Log (A list of all your CPD activities)
Work Practice Requirements
You must complete at least 12 interpreting assignments (minimum of 12 hours) every 12 months. This can include paid and voluntary work. Keep evidence of your interpreting work (e.g. invoices or email from agencies/organisations).
Exemptions
If you are unable to meet the CPD or work practice requirements (due to illness, other work, etc.), you can apply for an exemption by emailing RISLI.
Audits
RISLI will audit at least 5% of interpreters each year. If selected, you must provide your CPD and work evidence.
If your records are incomplete or not acceptable, you may be asked to:
· Submit extra info
· Be re-audited next year
· Be referred to the Registration Sub-committee
Please note this is a short summary of the policy. Please see the full CPD and Work Practice policy for the full requirements of RISLI.