Limited English Proficiency Information
Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, DES will take reasonable steps to ensure that persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) have meaningful access and an equal opportunity to participate in our services, activities, programs, and other benefits. It is the policy of DES is to ensure meaningful communication with persons with LEP and/or their authorized representatives. The policy also provides for communication of information contained in vital documents. All interpreters, translators and other aids needed to comply with this policy shall be provided without cost to the person being served and their families will be informed of the availability of such assistance free of charge.
Language help will be provided for people with limited English proficiency (LEP).
This may include:
- Trained bilingual staff
- Staff interpreters
- Contracts with local interpretation or translation services
- Technology or phone interpretation services
All staff will be informed about this policy. Staff who work directly with people with LEP will receive training on:
- Clear communication
- How to work effectively with an interpreter
Vital Documents
"Vital documents" are generally documents that affect access to, retention in, or termination or exclusion from a program, service, or benefit.
These documents may include:
- Applications
- Consent forms
- Complaint forms
- Intake forms
- Letters about eligibility for benefits
- Letters about approval, denial, reduction, or termination of benefits
- Notices about rights
- Documents that require a response from the person with LEP
- Documents related to parental custody or child support
Use of Family and Friends
Some people with LEP may want to use a family member or friend as an interpreter.
DES will only allow this if both of the following conditions are met:
- The person clearly requests it
- The person understands that a free interpreter is available
DES will not use minor children as interpreters, unless there is an emergency and no other option is available. The offer of a free interpreter and the response will be documented in their file.
If a family member or friend is used, DES will consider:
- Whether the person can interpret accurately
- Privacy and confidentiality
- Possible conflicts of interest
If the family member or friend is not appropriate, DES will provide a qualified interpreter at no cost.
For More Information
You can file a complaint if you believe you were discriminated because of your:
- Race
- Color
- National origin
You must file your complaint with the Office of Equal Opportunity within 180 days of the date the discrimination happened.
File a Discrimination Complaint