Language policy

We introduced a new language policy in response to our increasingly diverse population, and to help our employees deal with all language issues. Our principal language is English, but we must consider demand for other languages when delivering services.

Our policy covers the following areas:
  • we provide sign language at all our functions if you request it

  • our receptionists in City Hall and the Cecil Ward Building have been trained in sign language

  • if you write to us in Irish, we will reply in Irish and we have set up an Irish voice mail service (028 9032 0202 extension 2416)

  • we can provide interpreters for small meetings if you let us know in advance

  • we've set up a language interpreting telephone line in our Registrar of Births, Deaths, Marriages and Civil Partnerships

  • a dedicated recruitment contact number (028 9027 0396) is in place to assist applicants whose first language is not English

  • we have produced a Welcome Guide, which has information on our services for newcomers and visitors in a range of languages

  • our website is written in plain English and is accessible to people with disabilities

  • all major documents and publications are available in Braille, audio, or large print, if you request it.
These are just some of the things we have taken in to consideration.

Download language policy



Contact Us

Good Relations Unit
Chief Executive's Department
Belfast City Hall
Belfast
BT1 5GS

Telephone: 028 9027 0663
Email: goodrelations@belfastcity.gov.uk