EIL is a small charity (charity reg. number 1070440) and a company limited by guarantee (company registration 3166809) currently employing 9 people and based in Malvern, Worcestershire. EIL UK is part of a bigger federation – Federation EIL - involving 23 countries all over the world.

E.I.L. stands for ‘Experiment in International Living’, a programme which originated in 1932 in the United States with the aim of building a worldwide network of non-profit associations to promote cultural exchange and educational programmes.

Since the 1930s, EIL has been an active member of this network, providing a wide range of programmes for UK residents wishing to travel abroad, and for international people coming to Britain.

Today EIL delivers cultural education programmes to increase mutual understanding at regional, national and international level. To achieve this, EIL works with individuals, schools, youth workers and other organisations, to reach young people and especially those who are disadvantaged in some way, as well as any individual wishing to be involved in a life-changing experience.

EIL believes that the way to reach cohesion in today’s multicultural society is to get to know each other and to share common values. If cultural understanding is fostered, diversity can be a source of great enrichment.

EIL is governed by a Board of Trustees, appointed by Members of EIL and working in conjunction with the senior management team and staff. As a charity EIL is bound by the requirements of the Charities Commission.