
Every sign language interpreter faces a pivotal moment in their career—the transition into new, specialised domains such as legal, medical, conference, or remote interpreting. For trainee interpreters, this shift can feel both exciting and overwhelming as they transition first from a trainee to qualified professional. How do you ensure you're ready? How do you gain confidence without stepping beyond professional boundaries?
At The Together Conference 2025, an insightful panel discussion titled: "Safe Transitions: Exploring New Interpreting Domains as a Trainee Professional with Confidence and Integrity" will tackle these very questions, equipping attendees with the tools, strategies, and mindset needed to step into new interpreting environments with confidence and professionalism.
Expanding Horizons While Staying Within Ethical Boundaries
As a Trainee Sign Language Interpreter (TSLI), it’s natural to want to gain as much experience as possible—but not all opportunities are suitable at every stage of development. This session, led by experienced interpreter and mentor Stephen Ellis-Menton, alongside trainee interpreters Katie Love and Emily Duller, will discuss:
✅ Recognising Transferable Skills – Understanding what skills from your existing experience can be applied across domains.
✅ Identifying Knowledge Gaps – Knowing what you don’t know and how to bridge those gaps effectively.
✅ Seeking Supervision & Mentorship – How guidance from experienced interpreters can help you grow while ensuring ethical practice.
✅ Understanding Professional Boundaries – Why working within your competence level protects both you and the communities you serve.
✅ Ethical Decision-Making – How to navigate real-world situations where opportunities arise that may be outside your current scope.
For many trainees, the transition from Trainee to Qualified is a complex process filled with learning curves, mistakes, and moments of self-doubt. This panel will encourage an open discussion on the pressures trainees face, how to handle self-imposed and external expectations, and the importance of taking calculated steps forward rather than rushing into areas before you’re ready.
Meet the Panel: Voices from Different Stages of the Journey
This session is designed to offer multiple perspectives, blending the experiences of a seasoned interpreter and mentor with those of two trainee interpreters currently navigating their transition into professional practice.
👤 Stephen Ellis-Menton (Spain) – A registered BSL interpreter with over 20 years of experience, specialising in VRS/VRI interpreting and interpreter education. As a trainer, mentor, and assessor, Stephen has supported countless interpreters through their professional journey.
👤 Katie Love (UK) – A newly qualified TSLI who has spent years working in the charity and social care sector before transitioning into interpreting. She brings insight into how professional identity shifts when moving from a 'signer' to an interpreter.
👤 Emily Duller (UK) – A CODA and newly registered TSLI, currently gaining experience in educational and freelance settings while working towards full registration. With a strong academic background in BSL & Deaf Studies, she brings a fresh trainee perspective on learning to navigate different domains.
Each panellist will share their unique experiences, offering practical guidance on making safe and ethical career transitions while maintaining professional integrity.
This Session is for You if…
🔹 You're a TSLI preparing to step into new interpreting domains.
🔹 You want to build confidence but also avoid stepping beyond your professional remit.
🔹 You’re interested in learning how mentorship and supervision can shape your career path.
🔹 You’re a mentor, supervisor, or experienced interpreter wanting to support trainees more effectively.
Professional growth requires calculated steps—this session will ensure you take those steps wisely, ethically, and with confidence.
Join the Discussion at The Together Conference 2025!
📅 Date: 28th June 2025
🌍 Presented in: English (with interpretation in BSL, IS French and Spanish)
🔗 Explore the full programme & book your ticket now: https://www.thetogetherconference.co.uk/tickets2025
Your journey as an interpreter doesn’t have to be overwhelming—with the right guidance, you can transition into new domains safely, professionally, and with a strong ethical foundation.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from those who’ve been through it before!
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