Corporate information and policies

The British Council is a transparent and open organisation that strives to build trust between people worldwide.

In this spirit, we make public a large amount of information relating to our ways of work and our performance. You can also request information under the Freedom of Information Act.

The British Council produces a number of corporate reports and documents, including an Annual Report, which evaluates the previous year's performance and global impact. The Corporate Plan outlines the focus of our work and direction for the period 2013-15.

As an international organisation that engages with over 600 million people a year, we abide by an extensive range of policies and procedures. These ensure that we meet the highest standards in vital areas ranging from equal opportunities and diversity to child protection and environmental sustainability.

Accountability

As an executive non-departmental public body, we are called annually before the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee to give evidence on British Council activity as part of the committee’s inquiry into the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Performance and Finances and, upon request, called to the Public Accounts Committee.

As a registered charity we are subject to charities legislation and to scrutiny by the Charity Commission.