The Essex Sign Language Interpreter Network (ESLIN) has taken the decision to close. The ESLIN website will be taken offline and the committee dissolved.
ESLIN was founded in 2015 in response to local interpreters seeking a way to share CPD costs and as an informal support network. Over the last 10 years, the membership has grown, and the administrative responsibilities have grown with it necessitating a more formalised and regulated structure. Other networking and support options have also developed leading to a duplication of work and a decrease in engagement as there are now many options available to interpreters. Following an in-depth discussion among members, it was agreed that rather than adopting the status of a registered organisation, ESLIN had fulfilled its original purpose and that it is now the appropriate time for change.
ESLIN was founded in 2015 in response to local interpreters seeking a way to share CPD costs and as an informal support network. Over the last 10 years, the membership has grown, and the administrative responsibilities have grown with it necessitating a more formalised and regulated structure. Other networking and support options have also developed leading to a duplication of work and a decrease in engagement as there are now many options available to interpreters. Following an in-depth discussion among members, it was agreed that rather than adopting the status of a registered organisation, ESLIN had fulfilled its original purpose and that it is now the appropriate time for change.
ESLIN website – The website will be closed and so will no longer host interpreter profiles. Anyone wishing to view interpreter information or book a registered BSL/English interpreter, can use established national directories such as NRCPD or RBSLI which will provide up-to-date access to qualified interpreters.
ESLIN email address – The ESLIN email address (eslinjobs@googlegroups.com) will remain active for people to contact interpreters who were previously members of ESLIN. However, please note that ESLIN membership is now static and no new interpreters will be added to the mailing list.
Facebook – The Facebook page will continue to be maintained to share occasional updates.
Although ESLIN will no longer continue in a formal structure, interpreters will continue to support one another informally and promote professional best practice.
Sincere thanks are extended to all members, colleagues and the wider D/deaf community for their support and trust over the years