Category: Community

OCS Philippines Joins Hands with the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines

Posted on by Ash

In a significant development, OCS Philippines is delighted to announce its new affiliation with the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP). This partnership marks a milestone in the company’s journey, further strengthening its ties within the British and Philippine business communities.

The BCCP, an independent, non-profit membership organisation, has been instrumental in bolstering the business and social interests of its members within the British and Philippine communities. With a robust network of over 1,200 entrepreneurs and senior executives from multinational corporations and SMEs, the BCCP represents more than 300 member companies and individuals.

As a company founded in Britain, OCS Philippines is thrilled to partner with an organisation that serves as a vital link connecting British-founded and owned communities. This partnership aligns seamlessly with OCS Philippines’ ethos and heritage, further enhancing its commitment to fostering strong business relationships and contributing to the growth and development of the communities it serves.

This affiliation with the BCCP not only symbolises a shared vision and commitment towards achieving business objectives but also opens up new avenues for collaboration, innovation, and mutual growth. It is a testament to OCS Philippines’ continuous efforts to expand its network and influence, reinforcing its position as a key player in the industry.

Miracles of Compassion: The Inspiring Story of Ms. Menchie Morales

Posted on by Ash

OCS Philippines is immensely proud to share the heartwarming story of Ms. Menchie Morales, an OCS TRUE Star Awardee deployed in one of our corporate sector client’s facilities. This extraordinary account was recounted by the client, who deeply appreciates Ms. Morales’s remarkable act of compassion – assisting a mother in need during a critical moment.

When a client’s employee sought assistance for a mother in distress, Ms. Morales sprang into action without hesitation. Despite the absence of medical professionals on site, she swiftly assessed the situation and determined how she could lend aid. Upon finding the baby in a dire state in the toilet, she instinctively provided warmth and care, which led to the baby’s improved condition and eventual cries – a sign of vitality. Ms. Morales’s quick thinking and decisive actions didn’t stop there; she also aided the mother in expelling the placenta, ensuring both mother and baby received necessary support.

The commendation from bystanders speaks volumes about Ms. Morales’s selflessness and efficacy in a crisis. Her intervention ultimately resulted in the survival of the newborn; a fact affirmed by the Rescue Team of Silang.

This touching narrative serves as a testament to the profound impact individuals can have through acts of kindness and altruism. Ms. Menchie Morales exemplifies the values of empathy and compassion that we hold dear at OCS Philippines. Her dedication to helping others in their time of need is truly inspiring and embodies the spirit of our organisation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Morales for her unwavering benevolence and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her.

A Heartfelt Tribute to the Inspirational Women of OCS Philippines

Posted on by Ash

OCS Philippines, the leading provider of Facilities Management services, proudly stand alongside an outstanding team of over 4,000 colleagues, uniting in the pursuit of a common goal.

On the recent International Women’s Day, we paused to acknowledge and honoured the phenomenal 30 percent of our workforce who are extraordinary women. These inspiring colleagues continue to be integral to OCS’s remarkable journey, showcasing unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment that propel our collective success.

Facebook Page: J.Me Crochet

In a past gesture of appreciation, we channelled the true spirit of this celebration by supporting Jamie Ignacio, a Senior High School student whose creative gifts uplifted and inspired our women.

Jamie’s story unveils a narrative beyond mere gift-giving. Faced with financial challenges, this empowered young woman recognises the value of education and the sacrifices made by her single mother. Instead of succumbing to societal pressures or chasing fleeting trends, Jamie’s maturity shines through as she focuses on alleviating her family’s burden.

In a world captivated by superficial allure and social media glamour, Jamie stands as a beacon of responsibility and creativity. Her tale not only underscores accountability but also highlights the importance of nurturing creativity in the face of adversity. This International Women’s Day, Jamie’s example serves as a reminder that where there is a will, there is always a way – especially when approached with love and thoughtful consideration.

Moreover, our Cebu team eagerly prepared for an empowering Women Empowerment Talk. The event unfolded with an array of delightful cupcakes, carefully crafted appreciation cards, an invigorating Zumba session, and a concluding dinner. This comprehensive initiative was meticulously designed to foster a supportive and uplifting environment for all women present, inspiring them to not only thrive but also to wholeheartedly embrace their unique strengths. It served as a platform to celebrate diversity, encourage collaboration, and reinforce the collective power of women in the workplace, leaving a lasting impact on the team’s camaraderie and shared commitment to women’s empowerment.

To our exceptional women, you are the driving force behind our achievements, and we extend heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable contributions on that special day.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Let us collectively look back to applaud all women for their essential contributions to creating a better world. They continued to epitomise the pillars of progress and prosperity for us all.

Love in Action; Kindness at Heart

Posted on by Ash

Valentine’s Day was truly at its best with the OCS Philippines team joining hands with Childhope Philippines Foundation, Inc. to create a day of love that went beyond the ordinary. Our hearts swelled with joy as we made the day extra special for the children of Blumentritt, Manila, through an initiative we named “Love in Action; Kindness at Heart.”

Valentine’s Day was truly at its best with the OCS Philippines team joining hands with Childhope Philippines Foundation, Inc. to create a day of love that went beyond the ordinary. Our hearts swelled with joy as we made the day extra special for the children of Blumentritt, Manila, through an initiative we named “Love in Action; Kindness at Heart.”

Our main goal wasn’t just to bring laughter and joy to these little hearts but also to leave them with a lasting message about love and kindness. To kick things off, our team prepared a heartwarming short film, teaching the kids the importance of helping others and the profound impact their kindness can have. The smiles on their faces as they absorbed this lesson were priceless.

The day was packed with fun activities, including various games that had the children giggling and playing with newfound friends. One highlight was the dedicated time for our employees who went the extra mile, dipping into their own pockets to offer special gifts to the children. The genuine connections formed during these moments emphasized how the spirit of OCS is not just a concept but a living reality, united in both mind and heart.

But the giving didn’t stop there. Thanks to generous donations from our OCS Philippines team, we were able to present the children with an array of toys, turning their day into a playground of happiness. Witnessing their excitement and the immediate sharing among the kids, who even thought of their younger siblings, added an extra layer of warmth to the day.

As the children enjoyed a feast, the spirit of sharing prevailed. It was touching to see them set aside some goodies to bring home for their families. Their selflessness and consideration for others showcased the true essence of love and hope.

In the end, this day became a tapestry woven with threads of inspiration and love. The resilience and hope radiating from these incredible kids left an indelible mark on our hearts. Through “Love in Action; Kindness at Heart,” we not only brightened their Valentine’s Day but also planted seeds of compassion and goodwill that will hopefully blossom in their lives for years to come.

The OCS brand has officially launched globally, and here’s what the Philippines team did.

Posted on by Ash

On January 22, 2024, the highly anticipated global launch of the OCS brand marked a momentous occasion, as it reverberated simultaneously across the globe. Among the enthusiastic participants was OCS Philippines, where the launch was commemorated with a vibrant event that not only introduced the brand but also added a unique touch by celebrating the birthdays of individuals born in January.

The festivities in the Philippines were not confined to the launch alone; we also unveiled the OCS TRUE STAR award, an initiative that aims to honour individuals exemplifying exceptional kindness and embodying the values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment. This award serves as a testament to OCS’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating those who positively impact the lives of others.

The event showcased a fusion of excitement and purpose, combining the global unveiling of the OCS brand with the heartfelt celebration of birthdays and the introduction of the OCS TRUE STAR award. As OCS Philippines embraced this moment, the grand celebration not only marked the birth of a global brand but also highlighted the importance of recognizing and promoting values that contribute to the betterment of society.

#weareOCS #weareontheMISSION

In a single pulse, two cities beat as one. Thank you, Red Cell Rangers!

Posted on by Ash

In a profound display of solidarity, the heartbeat of compassion resonated between two vibrant cities as the OCS Group Philippines orchestrated a remarkable blood donation drive in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross. Manila and Cebu, two bustling urban centers, harmonized their efforts in a single pulse, illustrating the potent impact of unity on the journey of saving lives.

This exceptional initiative transcends geographical boundaries, emphasizing that benevolence knows no limits. The synergy between the OCS Group Philippines teams in Manila and Cebu, combined with the unwavering support of the Philippine Red Cross, brought forth a tangible testament to the power of collective goodwill. Each donated pint of blood becomes a poignant symbol of selflessness and shared responsibility, weaving a narrative that underscores the intrinsic connection between diverse communities.

A total of 36 bags of life-sustaining blood were collected, each serving as a reservoir of hope for those in need. This impressive outcome not only reflects the generosity of the participants but also underscores the critical impact such initiatives can have on bolstering healthcare resources. As the ripples of kindness emanate from this collective effort, it inspires a ripple effect, urging others to join in and perpetuate this flow of compassion. Let this endeavor stand as a beacon, reminding us all that when cities beat as one, remarkable feats of humanity can be achieved, and the pulse of kindness can reverberate far beyond the boundaries of any single community.

OCS receive social value commendation at ERSA Employability Awards 2023

Posted on by ameliaroberts

OCS were honoured to receive a social value commendation at the ERSA Employability Awards 2023.

We always aim to be our best, delivering the best partnerships and best services every time. It takes a hard-working, knowledgeable and compassionate team to provide the services and initiatives at OCS and we are extremely proud of our commendation.

The ERSA Employability Awards celebrate best practice in the employment support sector and demonstrate the hard work and dedication of those working to improve the lives of jobseekers, communities and the wider workforce.

We were also thrilled to have been nominated by Ingeus for the ‘Employer Partnership of the Year Award’.

Unlocking potential: placing people into work with OCS

The nomination

We are committed to being a responsible employer and building a diverse and inclusive workforce reflective of the communities we serve. We have an established ‘Placing People into Work’ programme dedicated to changing lives by providing meaningful employment to people from vulnerable groups and pathways for development for all our colleagues.

Ingeus and OCS work closely together to develop and refine tailored recruitment processes for each contract. By tailoring the pre-selection process, we ensure that candidates are equipped with everything they need to help them succeed in work. This includes making sure candidates have the necessary documents, information and training ahead of being interviewed, and that support mechanisms are in place for new recruits once they are in work.

Ingeus is now supporting us to fill vacancies for Court Tribunal and Security Officers (CTSO) in London and Greater Manchester. Together we have developed and refined a recruitment process, established service level agreements, and are now delivering exceptional results. In the last such recruitment exercise there were 20 candidates put forward for interview who secured job offers.

To help prepare candidates for interview Ingeus works with OCS to:

  • Source candidates with the right skills and aptitudes for the role
  • Deliver employer information sessions
  • Fund participants Security Industry Association (SIA) licences
  • Deliver a bespoke 3-day CTSO routeway course (designed by OCS)
  • Arrange a visit to a local court
  • Prepare documents for the enhanced security vetting processes

All candidates who successfully complete the CTSO routeway course are put forward for interview.

In the first recruitment round, Ingeus Employer Account Manager Farwa spent several weeks calling 160 potential applicants to see whether the role would suit them. She narrowed the search down to 12 people who attended a three-day Routeway Course devised by Ingeus to explain the job in detail. Seven people were offered roles, four of whom are female.

“There wasn’t a dry eye in the building – people were jumping up and down with delight after getting the jobs,” she recalls. “An established company had given them a chance and you couldn’t help but feel the emotion in the room.”

In undertaking this innovative and tailored approach to recruitment through Ingeus, we are attracting candidates who would not typically apply for our vacancies. In doing so we are challenging role stereotypes (gender, age, ethnicity etc.) and creating a stronger workforce which is more reflective of the communities we work within.

Stephen Kerr, Senior Regional Manager, OCS, said the partnership had been instrumental in supporting our drive to attract women and others currently under-represented in the security industry.

“Working with Ingeus on our social value recruitment process, we have been able to recruit talented people into our workforce who have unique experiences and abilities,” he said. “In our role at HM Courts and Tribunals Service, showing our customers genuine empathy in difficult circumstances is a key skill and our Ingeus recruits have that in abundance.”

Ann-Marie Conlon-Taylor, OCS Social Value Manager, HMCTS contract added: “Working with Ingeus helps us access people who have faced barriers to work, but who are being properly supported in a professional manner into employment. We were very impressed with the calibre of applicants put forward.”

It’s Road Safety Week!

Posted on by ameliaroberts

We invite you to participate in Road Safety Week that is running from November 19th to 25th. The week is about spreading awareness, fostering mindfulness, and ensuring safety for ourselves and each other on the roads.

Our goal is simple: to save lives.

Each year, countless lives are affected by road accidents, but together, we can make a difference. By coming together during Road Safety Week, we can:

  • Raise awareness: Help others understand the importance of safe driving, responsible pedestrian behaviour, and the consequences of road accidents.
  • Promote mindfulness: Encourage everyone to be more mindful while on the road, whether behind the wheel or walking as pedestrians.
  • Ensure safety for all: Share tips, best practices, and resources to make our roads safer for everyone.
  • Visit brake.org.uk to download posters and resources to help spread the word and drive the message home.

Join us in making roads safer and preventing accidents during Road Safety Week. We can create a positive impact, save lives, and build a safer community.

Drive Safely!

OCS Foundation: People into Work programme

Posted on by ameliaroberts
What is the People into Work programme?

People into Work is a unique UK programme, developed by the OCS Foundation, which aims to change individuals’ lives for the better by bringing sustainable employment opportunities to local individuals who have been in long-term unemployment, are ex-serving personnel, or face specific mental health or physical challenges.

Our people are the heart of everything we do as a business and our people-centred approach is what allows us to deliver not only the best practices and best experiences for our customers, but the best place of work for our employees.

The programme has already supported over 290 people with their own employment journey, and over 50 people have been brought into sustainable employment within OCS to date.

Jeffrey’s story

OCS helped Iraq and Afghanistan veteran Jeffrey Akrasi return to work. With support from The Forces Employment Charity, Jeffrey obtained the necessary qualifications and is now a Deputy Contract Manager at WLNT NHS Trust.

“I came into the West London contract on January 22nd after serving three tours in the army. I transitioned my employment into OCS from FEC, a well-known forces employment charity. I’m looking forward to remaining in the OCS family and working to the company’s values.”

Group CEO, Rob Legge, outlines the OCS Best Strategy and Approach

Posted on by ameliaroberts

The international facilities management landscape has been dominated by the same global players for a number of years. However, when OCS Group and Atalian Servest’s operations in the UK, Ireland, and Asia merged, it created a new company which had the potential to act as an industry leader and disruptor.

I have been involved in facilities management for close to three decades and it has become a real part of my DNA. Our merger earlier in 2023 was an opportunity to drive forward not only the business, but the entire industry. With our newly expanded, critical scale, we saw the opportunity to take stock of our purpose and values and ensure we were building the most compelling offering for our customers.

Our approach

When formulating a plan for the next phase of OCS’ journey, we established a collective vision of wanting to be the partner of choice in the industry, providing the most valuable service to any customer we worked with across each of our geographies. The culmination of this work was the formulation of OCS’ new strategy, BEST. It has been established to enhance how we serve our customers, empower our workforce, and contribute to the well-being of the communities we touch.

Today, our mission at OCS is clear: to make people and places the best they can be. We’ve embarked on this journey with the aim to create exceptional experiences, enhance productivity, refine our practices, foster communities, and ultimately, deliver outstanding outcomes. These aspects form the core of our strategy and are reinforced by our TRUE values.

Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment—these values are the foundation of everything we do.

They guide our interactions with customers, colleagues, partners, and the communities we serve, ensuring a cohesive approach to our mission.

In an ever-evolving world, we believe that creating exceptional experiences is paramount. We understand that the value we bring is not just in our services but in the experiences we create. From a well-maintained office space that enhances productivity, to a clean and safe healthcare facility that promotes well-being, OCS is dedicated to improving every aspect of the human experience within the spaces we manage.

Our business is powered by best practice, consistency and our unique attention to detail. Ultimately, we will look to set the benchmark for our industry, harnessing the power of technology, innovation, and human expertise to create efficiencies for our customers.

However, this is not a one-step change but rather a continual process. To succeed in our mission, we must consistently look at improving our practices and ensure that our work aligns with the highest ethical and sustainability standards. Our commitment to best practices guarantees that we are not just compliant, but we set the standard for excellence in our industry.

Empowering our workforce

Overall, OCS is made up of 120,000 individuals, most of whom are workers on the frontline. These are the people who sit at the core of our business, and it is only by empowering them that we can truly thrive. We encourage our colleagues to take ownership, make decisions, and shape the future of our business. This not only elevates the service we provide, but also gives our workforce the opportunity to progress their careers in our business.

As a business we have a fundamental commitment to social mobility. We ensure we recruit from the widest possible talent pool; we offer each of our colleagues ongoing training to support their career progression and we foster and invest in a diverse and inclusive culture.

Serving communities

Last but not least, we consider ourselves integral parts of the communities we serve. Our goal is to create a positive impact on the people and places we touch, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being. We aspire to be responsible and sustainable members of every community we serve.

We adopt this mindset right the way through the business and are continuously looking to evolve our approach to each of the ‘E’, the ‘S’ and the ’G’. It runs from our 2040 net-zero commitment, down to the work we do to supporting the individual communities we work in across each of our geographies.

OCS’ BEST strategy and TRUE values are at the heart of our mission to make people and places the best they can be.

We also believe they will be fundamental to our future growth as a business and industry leader – our commitment to this strategy and our values sets the stage for us to set a new standard in the industry. OCS is in a unique position and is primed for growth. We are a dynamic business and it is my ambition to make this company the market leaders in the facilities management industry. Reflecting on the first 6 months of my role as Global CEO, I believe we have the team to deliver on this ambition.

 

Rob Legge, Group CEO

OCS Group launches OSCi Academy to offer colleagues world-class training in data skills

Posted on by ameliaroberts

OCS, a leading global facilities service provider, has invited employees from across its business to become part of its newly created OCSi Academy which is designed to help develop vital data skills and support career progression. It forms part of the Group’s commitment to empowering its people, giving them the tools and support to thrive.

The training will be delivered by Multiverse, a tech company focused on high-quality education and training through applied learning. In an initial trial, 15 OCS colleagues will enrol on a 15-month data apprenticeship, with plans to expand this next year. This investment by OCS into these apprenticeships aims to improve data-driven decision-making and efficiency across the business, supporting clients and employees to deliver better outcomes.

It comes as research within the company found that most employees whose role requires some data analysis spend a considerable amount of time each week wrangling data. 91% of respondents said they wanted to improve their data skills.

Daniel Dickson, Chief Executive Officer, UK & Ireland, said: “As part of our OCS TRUE values, we are committed to ‘empowering our colleagues through excellent working environments’ and providing these opportunities for developing new skills, is key to that. Our colleagues are already using data heavily to inform their decisions and deliver results for customers, and this new training will empower them to do so more efficiently and effectively. Not only are these vital skills that will help them in their job, but they are skills that will support them throughout their careers.”

Euan Blair, CEO of Multiverse, said: “The OCSi Academy has been designed to transform careers for the individuals that receive this world-class training while transforming their ability to make data-driven decisions and use technology to drive efficiency and results. Through meaningful, applied learning, apprentices at OCS will gain the relevant skills that will propel them forward in their career journey, and support them in their role today and in the future.”

Multiverse delivers world-class training in a wide range of qualifications in tech, data and engineering. Apprentices benefit from coaching with an industry expert and are supported by a thriving community with events, socials, mentoring and leadership programmes.

OCS supports Scottish Autism Charity with a sensory room for a local school

Posted on by ameliaroberts

As part of its commitment to delivering social value within its communities, OCS were delighted to help Scottish Autism’s New Struan School, based in Alloa, create a new sensory room designed to help enrich the learning experience of its pupils. The project took around six months and was supported by OCS’ customer, SCTS (The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service), and its local supply chain.

The OCS team, some of whom have a personal connection with the charity, donated their time and resources, working closely with the school to ensure that the refurbishment of the existing sensory room best met the needs of the young people – this was done by creating an internal space with an external feel. Works included sensory flooring, a bespoke mural including user drawings, bespoke lighting, sound system, sensory equipment and a quiet corner. The new room will form an important part of the everyday experience for young people at New Struan, and the staff team are ‘delighted and excited’ by the new resource.

New Struan Head Teacher Lee-Anne McAulay said: “The partnership with OCS has been an absolute dream for us; the team entirely supported our vision, and nothing was too much to ask. We wanted to ensure that the sensory room would be part of the everyday sensory regulation for our young people and built into the curriculum. Too often, the perception of such resources is that they are somewhere for young people to be sent when they are struggling to regulate or distressed. We wanted a space to flip that expectation and make it integral to the school experience. I cannot overstate the benefit our young people will get from this calm, beautiful sensory space.”

Colin Rushforth, Account Director at OCS, added: “Scottish Autism is a charity which gives so much to the Scottish community and is close to my heart. With the support of our dedicated team and supply chain, we at OCS were delighted to help such a great cause and work with the fantastic staff at New Struan School.

“From the outset, our joint vision with Michael Laurie Architects and the New Struan staff was to create a bespoke space which would bring an outdoor feeling indoors. We feel the completed project reflects this. We hope the young people enjoy their new Sensory Room and look forward to supporting Scottish Autism in future projects.”