About Us

Background

In January 2021, the UK government abruptly withdrew from Erasmus Plus, the European Solidarity Corps and other international programmes that provide life-changing educational, cultural and volunteering experiences for young people. At the same time, the UK ceased to participate in the Eurodesk information service which was founded in Scotland over 30 years ago and now links 37 European and neighbouring countries.

Schools, colleges, youth groups and charities, as well as concerned individuals from across Europe, came together through a series of webinars and informal groups during 2021 and 2022 to examine the implications of these changes, to share information about subsequent policy developments, and to discuss not only how to keep alive international partnerships and projects that have grown over decades, but also how to create new and wider opportunities. Their conclusion was the need for reliable information, exchange of knowledge, a forum for ongoing debate, and consistent advocacy in policy dialogue.

InterCom is the only UK-based network that exists specifically to provide these services.

Vision and aims

The vision of InterCom is that young people in the UK deserve equal and mutual access to international mobility opportunities as their peers in other European countries.

The aims are:

  • To enable organisations and individuals to share knowledge and information about international projects in the fields of youth, education and culture

  • To provide a focus for relevant policy discussion

  • To showcase innovation and best practice

  • To identify and advertise international opportunities for young people

  • To promote and facilitate partnerships between the UK and other countries

Erasmus Plus, e-Twinning and European Solidarity Corps.

Many members and users of this site regard Erasmus Plus (including e-Twinning) and the European Solidarity Corps as still the best and most widely recognised frameworks for international mobility opportunities for young people. Therefore InterCom will continue to provide information about these programmes, and about related campaigns.

However, InterCom itself is not a campaign platform. This network will advocate all kinds of mobility projects (including online / virtual) in Europe and beyond, regardless of how they may be funded. This includes initiatives outside any formal programme structure.

Membership

Membership of InterCom will be open to any individual or organisation working in the field of education, youth or culture, whether based in the UK or any other country. Standard or premium membership will be available (fees to be announced), with the following benefits.

Standard

  • Profile on website

  • Access to the InterCom resource hub (members’ area)

  • Promote and find opportunities for your organisation and young people

  • Share best practice and showcase achievements

  • Partner search and connections

  • Free webinars; discounts on other events

  • Knowledge sharing and networking

  • Updates on Erasmus+ and other international programmes

  • Authorised use of InterCom logo on your projects

  • Monthly newsletter and policy updates

    Premium

  • All standard benefits, plus:

  • Logo and links on InterCom website

  • Discounts on training offers

  • Priority promotional opportunities and webinar hosting

  • Annual event for Premium members

  • 2 for 1 membership – nominate one of your international partners for free membership

  • Additional opportunities for young people you work with (details to be confirmed)

Because InterCom is still in the start-up phase, we are currently only offering Founder Membership.