Introduction

CILT, the National Centre for Languages and the (Regional) Language Networks aim to promote a greater national capability in languages for business and employment. We do this in several ways:

• By researching and raising awareness of the social and economic benefits with policymakers, stakeholders, employers and employer representatives (in particular, Sector Skills Councils);
• By helping businesses improve their performance through effective international communications planning;
• By supporting providers of language services (e.g. trainers, interpreters, translators) in delivering services which meet employer needs;
• By developing and maintaining National Occupational Standards for languages in the workplace, for interpreting and for translation;
• By working with awarding and regulatory bodies, the UK education departments and funding agencies to improve the quality and uptake of languages provision in vocational contexts;
• By helping individuals develop and use their language skills for work;
• By identifying and sharing good practice in all these areas.

This work supports the aims of the National Languages Strategy in England and Languages Count in Wales. It is funded principally by the Department for Education and Skills, the Sector Skills Development Agency and the Regional Development Agencies. The findings of the ALI survey about the impact of the National Languages Strategy has implications for funding bodies, employers, providers and Sector Skills Councils.

To find out more about any aspect of our work with and for business, select one of the menu options above.