Language Access Policy

Iowa Legal Aid  - 080042

Abstract Number: 080042

May 2008

Iowa Legal Aid (ILA) developed a Language Access Policy for its Limited English Proficient (LEP) clients to ensure that they have meaningful access to the program's services.  The policy establishes a process for identifying LEP clients and assessing their language needs.  The guidelines for the assessment of services Iowa Legal Aid will provide to LEP clients balances factors such as:

1. The number or proportion of LEP persons from particular language groups in the  service area;
2. The frequency with which LEP individuals come into contact with the program;
3. The importance of the service provided by the program; and
4. The resources available to the recipient.

The Language Access Policy includes guidelines for working with LEP clients via telephone as well as walk-ins.   The policy includes sections on staff training, oral interpretation, translation of written materials, outreach and oversight.

To access ILA's Language Access Policy please click here.   To access ILA's LEP Clients Language Assessment document please click here.

Contact Information
Dennis Groenenboom
 Executive Director
Central Administrative Office
1111 9th Street, Suite 230
Des Moines, Iowa  50314-2527
Direct Phone: 515-243-2980, Extension 1620
E-Mail: dgroenenboom@iowalaw.org
Iowa Legal Aid Website: www.iowalegalaid.org

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