The past 12 months have been an incredibly positive and impactful period for the OCS Foundation, with colleagues across the business coming together to support communities, create opportunities, and raise vital funds for those who need it most.
Together, with support from colleagues, suppliers and the wider OCS Group, the Foundation has raised an incredible £220,106.00, supported by 62 dedicated Foundation Champions who continue to drive fundraising, community activity, and colleague support across the business.
The Foundation was established to support children and young people facing barriers, strengthen communities, and create opportunities that can change lives. Today, that commitment continues through partnerships and initiatives that support families, wellbeing, education, and local communities across the UK and Ireland.
Fundraising Across the Business
Colleagues across OCS have supported the Foundation through a wide range of fundraising activities over the past year, bringing teams together while raising funds for the OCS Foundation.
The 125 Challenge brought colleagues from around the globe together to celebrate the 125th anniversary of OCS. Teams took part in a virtual race along a 125-mile route, raising a staggering £41,573.45. In December, colleagues got into the festive spirit by supporting the Christmas Joy Campaign, and, with support from our valued suppliers, they had the opportunity to win exciting prizes through the OCS Big Prize Draw.
The amazing OCS Fleet team completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, covering 24 miles and testing endurance, teamwork, and resilience; many colleagues hosted Bakes and Brews coffee mornings, whilst the Private FM team hosted a triumphant Charity Golf Day.
The OCS Catering team raised £16,354.00, through dedicated fundraising activities and colleague support. Throughout the year, the foundation has received wonderful support from our suppliers and customers including prizes and donations.
Together, these events have helped build momentum behind the Foundation’s first year and created opportunities for colleagues to support causes that matter to them.
Supporting Young People Through the Irish Youth Foundation
Funding from the OCS Foundation will support the Irish Youth Foundation Bursary Programme, helping young people access opportunities that financial hardship may otherwise prevent them from accessing.
The bursaries provide practical support, including books, laptops, equipment, course fees, transport costs, apprenticeship tools, and wellbeing support linked to education or training.
The programme focuses on helping young people continue their education, access apprenticeships, and build pathways into employment and long-term opportunities.
Helping bereaved families through Scotty’s Little Soldiers
The Foundation will also support Scotty’s Little Soldiers and its SMILES respite breaks programme for bereaved military children and surviving parents.
In 2025, 349 children and surviving parents benefited from respite breaks at holiday lodges across the UK. Nearly all families reported improvements in communication, belonging, and connection following their stay, while more than half said they would not have been able to afford a break without support.
Each family break costs around £1,000, while the annual running cost of a lodge is approximately £15,000. Funding raised through the Foundation will help more families access time together in a safe and supportive environment during periods of grief and recovery.
Supporting Young People Living with Cancer Through Specialist Care
The OCS Foundation is also supporting the Teenage Cancer Trust Emotional Support Programme.
The programme helps young people manage the emotional and practical impact of cancer through specialist Youth Support Coordinators who work alongside clinical teams.
Support includes helping young people rebuild confidence, return to education or work, adjust to life after treatment, and connect with others facing similar experiences through activities, discussions, and social events.
Creating Opportunities Through Music and Youth Development
Funding will also support Brighten the Corners and its New Gen programme in Suffolk.
New Gen is a year-long youth-led music programme that combines creative development with youth work support. Across 30 sessions, young people develop confidence, communication skills, and progression pathways through music and creative activity.
The programme reaches a diverse group of young people, including neurodivergent participants, ESOL learners, and young people from underrepresented communities.
By creating inclusive opportunities and supportive environments, the programme helps young people build confidence, develop new skills, and strengthen social connections.
“What a first year it has been! We always knew that the first year would help us learn, gauge interest and importantly, find the best ways to support our partners. I have been delighted with the willingness of our colleagues, suppliers and customers to get behind the OCS Foundation. We have much to look forward to in year two with lots to get involved in. Most of all we are looking forward to seeing the direct impact in our local communities.”
Head of the OCS Foundation
Looking Ahead
The past year has been shaped by the commitment, generosity, and energy of colleagues across the business.
Every fundraiser, challenge, donation, and event will contribute towards practical support that will have a lasting difference for individuals, families, and communities in 2026 and beyond.
Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Foundation, including our Champions, fundraising teams, partners, suppliers, and colleagues across OCS.
The OCS Foundation was built on the belief that collective action can create lasting change. As the Foundation continues to grow, so will its ability to support more people, strengthen more communities, and create more opportunities for those who need them most.
