A Story of Impact – Joseph’s Education Journey
When Sergeant Jordan Relph died unexpectedly in July 2024, his son Joseph faced starting secondary school alone, away from all his friends.
With the family grieving and no school place available locally, Scotty’s Little Soldiers stepped in. Through its STRIDES Programme, the team acted fast – contacting school leaders and the local authority. Within a week, Joseph secured a place at the same school as his classmates, and his siblings were offered places too.
Joseph began this new chapter surrounded by familiar faces and a strong support network. For his family, it was one less burden at the hardest time of their lives, showing the real, immediate impact of Scotty’s advocacy.
Delivering Social Value That Makes a Difference
Our partnership helps Scotty’s reach more young people with meaningful, measurable support. It aligns with our key social value priorities:
- Health and well-being – funding access to mental health care and emotional support.
- Opportunities for young people – supporting educational grants and development.
- Support for the Armed Forces community – focusing resources where they are needed most.
Honouring Commitments and Inspiring Action
As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, we actively support Scotty’s mission to remember and help bereaved military children. Their goal to reach 1,000 young people each year by 2030 reflects the long-term, values-driven approach we share.
This partnership also provides our colleagues and customers with opportunities to get involved through fundraising, volunteering and raising awareness. It brings our values to life and connects our people to a powerful cause.
Executive Summary
OCS partners with Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a national charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. The partnership delivers long-lasting social value, supporting the military community and championing causes that align with both OCS and Scotty’s Little Soldiers. We are working together to ensure that bereaved military children feel remembered, supported and empowered for the future.
Founded in 2010 by Army widow, Nikki Scott, Scotty’s Little Soldiers provides holistic, lifelong support to bereaved military children aged 0 to 25. They offer three Family programmes:
- SMILES – fun activities, respite breaks and group events to help children feel part of a supportive community.
- SUPPORT – emotional and mental health care, including counselling and advocacy for families.
- STRIDES – educational support, personal development, and resources for teachers.
The charity helps young people build resilience, access emotional and mental health care, and develop the skills to succeed in education and personal development.
