Language Services Background
San Mateo County is linguistically diverse, with nearly half of County residents speaking a language other than English at home. Collectively, San Mateo County residents speak more than 100 different languages.
In 2017, the Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution seeking to provide meaningful access to County Services, programs, benefits, and information to all County residents, regardless of English proficiency.
The Language Access Policy is supported by three related initiatives: spoken interpretation, written translation, and universal signage and wayfinding.
In 2023, the Board of Supervisors underscored the County's commitment to further improving language access through a resolution acknowledging the importance of language access and directing the creation of a language access ordinance and implementation plan.
Translation & Interpretation
Translation refers to written materials, which are translated from one language to another. Immigrant Services coordinates translations of written materials for County departments.
Interpretation refers to spoken language, and can be simultaneous or consecutive. County departments have 24/7 access to a language line that offers consecutive interpretation in over 100 languages. For in-person County events, Immigrant Services coordinates simultaneous interpretation.
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Simultaneous interpretation uses technology like headsets or (for webinars) language channels.
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Consecutive interpretation does not require equipment, and includes telephone interpretation.
For County Departments
Departments use bilingual staff, written translation, and spoken interpretation to meet the needs of San Mateo County's linguistically diverse community. Departments can reach out to ImmigrantServices@smcgov.org with translation and interpretation questions and requests.