The Art of Communication: - Derry City Council

4.7.2 Chinese Employer Focus Groups4.7.2.1 Verbal and Written Communications• EHO is always talking in English during visit.• Employees only understand half or less of what they are being told by EHOs.• Make requirements on report short and to the point.• Not always good at conveying contents of letter (English) to employees.• Interpreters could be used along with bilingual reports.• Make assessment of who needs interpretation and then bring interpreter.• Would welcome telephone interpretation service (non English speakers). Thispoint has been suggested to officers before.4.7.2.2 Non-verbal Communication• Previously been in catering trade for 30 years – used to be very afraid of EHOs.But now it has improved by building rapport and understanding.• Sometimes EHOs can be very stern and scary. Not much smiling and not muchjoking. If too serious makes us nervous.4.7.2.3 Barriers• Very important that employer is present during inspection to help determine whatis required.• EHO should contact employer before they visit. Come at a more appropriate time.EHO should be there to help us not to catch us.• EHOs are not good at explaining why - when things need to change.• EHOs are often nitpicking.• Unaware if council has any policies and procedures regarding ethnic communities.• Chinese Welfare Association should do more to set up Chinese network inOmagh and Fermanagh as there is none right now.26The Art of Communication: A landscape shared between regulator and ethnic employer