"Translation services"

I attended an appointment today, for which mistakenly I had an interpreter booked for. However, I had informed my physiotherapist previously that I will attend with my daughter who always interprets for me as she speaks English and works in health care too, thus she is very familiar with medical terminology.

I was, however advised, that she is not allowed to translate for me and that I have  to use an interpreter, a person who is stranger to me and I don't feel comfortable with. In the past it never has been an issue, my daughter always translated for me and even if someone booked an interpreter accidentally, they cancelled them no problem and I was able to take my daughter with me to interpret as I feel more comfortable with her.

Today, the receptionist was not supportinve and understanding and I found the tone of their voice was unpleasant. We never had such experience in other places. It wasn't any serious appointment, it was a simple physiotherapy check up.

I feel very disappointed as so many receptionists in NHS, including GP's are unhelpful and unpleasant, often speaking to the patients as if they were doctors or managers, not supporting the patients and not providing dignity or showing empathy.