TRANSLATION is one of the first issues to address when working with migrant communities. Sergeant Brian Hughes built up a relationship with Poles on the ESOL courses at South Cheshire College and was able to put together a team of 15 volunteers who act as community observers. They go out with the police to help with language and they translate written materials.
In one project, the group translated phrases commonly used by bar staff, such as “you can’t come in because you’re wearing trainers”, which have been put on to flash cards in Polish and English and distributed to pubs through Pubwatch.
Sergeant Hughes won the Outstanding Commitment to Diversity award at the 2007 Justice Awards for his work with the Polish community. www.cjsonline.gov.uk/justiceawards