The British Council is the UK’s international culture and education organisation. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide.
Creating these vital connections between the people of all four nations of the UK and other countries benefits everyone. It encourages people and organisations from around the world to visit, study and partner with the UK, strengthening the UK’s global reputation and influence and driving economic growth.
By connecting the UK’s expertise in arts and culture, education and the English language to our global presence and unparalleled networks, we unlock potential and transform lives. We help artists to share their distinctive voices. We provide educators with the tools to shape generations. We give young people the confidence to shine.
We work with governments and our partners in the education, English language and cultural sectors to make a bigger difference, creating benefit for millions of people all over the world. At the heart of these relationships is trust which is built over time and nurtured through shared experiences.
We work with people in over 200 countries and territories. In 2024–25 we reached 600 million people.
Founded in 1934, we are a UK charity governed by Royal Charter and a UK public body, operating at arm’s length from government.
Most of our income comes from partnership agreements, contracts, teaching and exams, and philanthropy. We also receive grant-in-aid funding from the UK government.
For almost a century, it’s been our mission to build a world where people connect across borders, and where trust is the foundation for lasting change. A world where opportunities are limitless.
Our status
We are:
- a registered charity, no 209131 (England and Wales) and SC037733 (Scotland)
- an executive non-departmental public body. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is our sponsoring department
- a public corporation.
Our Patron is His Majesty King Charles III. Previously, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II held this position until her passing in September 2022. His Majesty served as our Vice Patron from 1984 until his Accession.
Read more about our work in our annual reports.