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Posted on14 June 2023

We are a Signatory of the Prompt Payment Code!

As a translation agency, we could not function without our reliable translators and interpreters. Treating suppliers fairly and paying invoices on time is one of our top priorities, so we are proud to announce that Atlas Translations is now a Signatory of the Prompt Payment Code (PPC).

What is the Prompt Payment Code?

The PPC is a voluntary code established in 2008 and administered by the Small Business Commissioner. It sets rules for payment practices for businesses, such as paying invoices on time.  Commitments of the signatories of the PPC are:

  1. Pay suppliers on time and within agreed terms;
  2. Give clear guidance to suppliers on terms, dispute resolution and prompt notification of late payment;
  3. Support good practice throughout their supply chain by encouraging adoption of the Code.

Signatories of the PPC are required to pay 95% of all invoices within 60 days, and 95% of invoices from small suppliers within 30 days.

Why have we joined?

Atlas Translations has operated in the translation industry for more than 30 years, so we realise that being a freelance translator or interpreter comes with challenges. More often than not, receiving payment for completed work is one of them. In particular for a freelancer, not being paid on time can have serious consequences. Here at Atlas, the last thing we want is for our suppliers to have to chase payments!  

For many years now, we’ve been making sure that our invoices are processed and paid in a timely manner. In fact, we often send reminders to the translators to issue invoices for completed assignments, which often surprises them. We simply believe that not paying suppliers within agreed terms would be disrespectful and unfair. Everyone should be compensated for work done and according to the agreement. That’s why our suppliers’ invoices are often processed before we’ve received payment for the project from the end client.

When talking about paying invoices, we have to mention Anna – the brilliant person at Atlas who processes our suppliers’ invoices. She is always on top of completed projects and submitted invoices, and ensures they are paid promptly. Often even within a few days!

Since the ethos of the Prompt Payment Code has been close to our hearts for a while now, it made sense for us to officially join as a signatory. We also want our suppliers, or potential future suppliers, to feel confident and assured when cooperating with us. We believe this will give peace of mind that they will be treated fairly and won’t have to worry about receiving payment for their work.

From now on, you’ll be able to find Atlas Translations among the signatories of the Prompt Payment Code.

ATC – Full membership of the ATC (Association of Translation Companies).

CIEP – Corporate membership of the CIEP (Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading) since 1993.

Corporate membership of the ITI (Institute of Translation and Interpreting) since 1994. Corporate Member of the Year 2021.

ISO 17100 – ISO 17100:2017 for Translation Services (since this standard began, in 2008, externally audited annually).

ISO 9001 – BS EN ISO 9001:2015 (certified since 2003, externally audited annually).

Living wage employer – As a living wage employer, we believe our staff deserve a wage which meets every day needs.

Mindful employer

Mindful employer – We are a mindful employer, working toward achieving better mental health at work.

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Disability confident committed – We are Disability Confident Committed, ensuring our recruitment, communications and support are inclusive and accessible.

4-day week

4-day week employer since 2019

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Good Business Charter Member since 2022

The Slator Language Service Provider Index (LSPI) is a ranking and an index of the world’s largest translation, localization, interpreting, and language technology companies.

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The Patient Information Forum promotes access to trusted and high-quality health information for the public and healthcare professionals.

Federation of Small Businesses and the Self-Employed

Member of the Federation of Small Businesses and the Self-Employed

Prompt Payment Code

Signatory of the Prompt Payment Code since 2023.

Accredited with the Fair Tax Foundation since February 2024

https://fairtaxmark.net/

Registered with the ICO since 2004.

Go to https://ico.org.uk/ for more information.