The Expedition Providers Association (EPA) was founded in 2003. EPA initially came together as a small informal group of expedition organisations that met to discuss changes within the industry. It became clear that there was a need for organisations to come together to share good practice and talk in an honest, open forum about the industry. In 2009 EPA became the awarding body for the LOtC expedition Quality Badge scheme. Organisations who would otherwise feel isolated and remote from the bigger picture soon had a reliable network of other industry professionals to consult on a range of matters. The EPA membership is made up of expedition providers catering for young adults under 25 in full-time education. Expeditions are defined as a 1 - 8 week experience involving overseas travel, adventurous activities and cultural exposure. EPA has become more recognised within the wider industry, and was at the forefront of helping to create BS8848, and also the EVAC badge for overseas expeditions EPA Activities: Within EPA's broad remit, it's activities include: • Negotiation on behalf of its members with industry standards bodies, NGOs and Government departments; • Helping and encouraging the establishment of an industry standard (click here to download the EPA Code of Practice); • Developing criteria for provider accreditation; • Providing a forum to discuss factors affecting our business and to share ideas and concerns; • Sharing and documenting best practice; • Lobbying organisations which affect our business, towards enforcing minimum standards; • Providing simple advice to inform and educate customers as to the services on offer; Visit: www.epa.uk.net for further details.