ESOL: Our calls for change and the evidence

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) can be the key to overcoming language barriers to opportunity; unlocking education, employment, and social integration for millions of people in the UK.

  • In England and Wales, 5.1 million people don't have English as their main language (English or Welsh in Wales). 
  • A million of those report not speaking English "well" or "at all" - more than one third of whom are UK citizens 
  • Speakers of English as a second or additional language (ESL) face a range of language barriers, to accessing their rights and entitlements, and to achieving their aspirations.
  • Demand for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) provision is rising. The number of ESOL learners increased by 17% from 2021-22. 
  • Yet this is against a backdrop of decimated funding, with the Adult Education Budget (AEB) declining by 56% in real terms between 2009/10 and 2016/17. 
  • Learners also face an ESOL “postcode lottery”. For learners in some areas, suitable or sufficient ESOL provision is often out of reach. 

Our calls for change

Our latest policy briefings

Relevant blogs

The research evidence