The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is committed to breaking down language barriers between our officers and Edmonton’s increasingly diverse community. In 2019, EPS became the first policing organization in Canada to establish a dedicated Language Services Unit. Since its inception, this unit has pioneered numerous innovative services, tools, resources, and guidelines to enhance communication and foster connections between the police and the public, particularly where linguistic and cultural barriers exist.

The Language Services Unit provides comprehensive support to all EPS officers, facilitating effective communication during public interactions. Key services offered include:

• Live Interpreter App: This app enables officers to communicate with members of the public in their preferred language.
• 911 Operator Access: 911 operators have immediate access to live interpreters to assist in emergency situations.
• Coordination: Officers can request interpreters through internal procedures, ensuring additional interpretation, translation, and transcription needs are met using both internal and external resources. This includes obtaining interpreters for investigative interviews or translating documents for court proceedings.
• Translation Support: The unit supports the translation of various EPS materials, including Hate Crimes Information, Know Your Rights, Strengthening Harmony, Visual Traffic Cards, Domestic Violence Resources, 911 Make the Right Call, and more. 

Together, we strive to ensure that every member of our community feels heard and understood by empowering our EPS officers with the tools they need to communicate effectively with all citizens.