We are all operating in an increasingly global and multi-cultural environment. One company's local market is another's export market and sixty percent of British exports now go to non-English speaking countries. Freedom of movement within Europe is resulting in the migration of labour, which is putting increased pressure on public services to ensure equal access to such individuals irrespective of language or culture. Surveys by the Department of Trade and Industry show that 25% of UK exporters experience language barriers and 14% are aware that they have lost business as a result.

You can rely on our expertise
The IoL Language Services Ltd (LSL) draws on the language skills of qualified professionals working in many different fields, in virtually any language. It helps organisations identify their language needs and develop appropriate solutions. LSL's assessments in a wide range of languages have been developed to meet the needs of industry, commerce and the public services and test the ability to use and understand language in context at different levels. LSL also works with educational institutions and training providers to develop and certify their courses. LSL offers assessments and translation work in over 120 languages, customised to meet the specific demands of individual clients.

Chartered Institute of Linguists members play a vital role in facilitating global communications and equal access to public services in their work as translators, interpreters and teachers. Stringent entry criteria and an enforceable code of conduct underline the importance of using properly qualified linguists and provide quality assurance for their clients.