The Halton Regional Police Service Board has agreed to adopt Language Interpreting Services Application (LISA), a web-based video and audio app that provides frontline officers 24/7 access to interpreters in over 200 languages, including American Sign Language.
With Halton being among the fastest growing regions in the GTHA, it's also becoming more diverse, with 17 per cent of residents speaking a language at home other than English or French. More than 7,000 Halton residents are reportedly unable to speak English or French - a 40 per cent increase since 2011.
Halton Police say providing frontline officers access to LISA will be a key step in helping the service develop trust and meaningful relationships with all members of the community. When officers attend an incident, but do not speak the same language as those involved, the app can be used to relay information instantly using secure access to professional certified translators and interpreters.
“Discovering innovative solutions to overcoming barriers within policing is always a top priority for our Service," said Halton Regional Police Service superintendent Bob Gourley. "The people and communities our officers are sworn to serve are evolving, and so too must our mentality and approach to policing. When we say we’re here for the community, we mean everybody. Having LISA available at any given moment will ensure our officers are better equipped to answer the call – regardless of who is making it.”
More information on LISA can be found here.
