We are proud to announce that we are part of twelve leading private security service providers that have pledged to support the National Business Crime Centre’s Safe Spaces scheme, which is also known as Operation Portum. This comprehensive initiative invites businesses to participate and contribute to the creation of safer environments within cities, town centers, and retail parks.
By joining this scheme, we have made a commitment to raise awareness among our security officers about Operation Portum’s core principles. Additionally, we will provide guidance to our private security personnel on how to effectively support and assist individuals who may feel vulnerable. Our dedication to this cause underscores their commitment to fostering safety and well-being in communities.
The response we have had from the private security industry to the scheme has been tremendous. With so many of the large security companies joining the scheme, there will be thousands of security staff up and down the country given training on the scheme and know what to do if someone is feeling unsafe and asks for their help. By working together we can help people feel safer in their communities.
Supt Patrick Holdaway
NBCC lead
There are many reasons why someone may feel vulnerable or unsafe when they are out. Private security staff can provide a reassuring presence as someone in a uniform that can be trusted to help someone in need of help. I am pleased that so many private security companies have signed up the NBCC’s Safe Spaces scheme working collaboratively to protect any individual who requires support.
Assistant Chief Constable Samantha Millar
National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for violence against women and girls
OCS is proud to support the National Safe Spaces scheme. This initiative aligns with our commitment to enhancing community safety and providing a secure environment. By training our security colleagues on the principles of Operation Portum, we can ensure that vulnerable individuals receive the support they need. We believe in the power of collaboration and are dedicated to playing our part in making public spaces safer.
Armed Forces Day was on Saturday, the 29th and to usher the day in, last week, we spoke to our Group CEO, Rob Legge, about the importance of being a forces-friendly employer. It’s crucial that we play our part in helping to support our troops as they reenter civilian life after their time in service, along with providing necessary aid for their families and loved ones.
In honour of this effort, we are highlighting two of our colleagues who have served. We are sharing their unique stories, detailing their journey from the force to being part of our global effort to make people and places the best they can be here at OCS.
Meet Bir Bahadur-Rai and Carl Gage.
Bir Bahadur-Rai: From Military Service to Security Supervisor
Bir Bahadur Rai is a former British Army Gurkha who spent 15 years in the military after joining in 1979 at the age of 20 in Hong Kong. His active service included a deployment to the Falkland Islands in 1986 to clear mines and booby traps, four years after the war with Argentina.
After retiring from the Gurkhas in 1994, Bir returned to Hong Kong and worked as a security officer for the Jardin Company. He later moved to the US Embassy in Dubai and worked in security before settling in the UK in 2016. His journey also involved working on cruise ships, serving at the American Embassy in Afghanistan, and being part of the Gurkha Reserve Unit in Brunei.
Bir’s transition to a security supervisor role at Greenham Business Park was facilitated by the Forces Employment Charity (FEC), which connected him with site manager Brendon Ferreira.
“I’m really enjoying working within OCS. It’s not easy to find work at my age and I feel lucky to have this and to have found OCS. This place is unique,” says Bir.
“Everything is organised. My duties are planned for almost a year ahead which empowers me to plan and hone my skills accordingly. I have learned many new things at this site and with OCS. The role has also helped me with my personal life, solving many problems and giving me the security I was initially looking for.” he adds.
Carl Gage: From Naval Chef to Facilities Management
Carl Gage is a former member of the Royal Navy. He embarked on his military journey at 17, inspired by his great-uncle’s stories and his passion for home economics. He trained at HMS Raleigh in Plymouth and served on his first ship, HMS Liverpool, a Type 42 Destroyer. His service included peacekeeping missions and the evacuation of expats from Lebanon to Cyprus during a conflict with Syria.
He fondly recalls his time in the service, from the initial shock of having his hair shaved off to the rewarding experiences he gained. He was not only a chef but also a firefighter and part of the damage control and disaster recovery teams. He rose through the ranks, becoming one of the youngest leading hands at 21 and a local acting Petty Officer by 25.
After nearly a decade in the service, he decided to start a new career. With the help of the Royal Navy’s resettlement program, he transitioned into the FM industry. He began as a QHSE Auditor at an FM company, auditing hard services for customers. His military skills, particularly in communication and leadership, proved invaluable in his new role.
He is now a regional director at OCS, responsible for six key customers and managing a P&L of approximately £30m yearly. He appreciates the similarities between the military and FM, particularly the variety each day brings. He is also involved in OCS’s efforts to honour the Armed Forces Covenant and support the military community.
Reflecting on his journey, he credits his success to the drive and determination instilled in him by the military. He encourages anyone leaving the forces to explore opportunities in FM, highlighting the many transferable skills ex-military personnel can offer potential employers. His story is a testament to the rewarding experiences and valuable skills that a military career can provide, and how these can be successfully applied to a civilian career.
“I have been extremely fortunate in both my careers in the Royal Navy & the FM Industry and would probably say some of it has been right place right time, but nothing has been achieved without drive and determination and that is something the military has instilled in me. The FM industry is certainly rewarding if you are willing to put the effort in.”
OCS is known as a ‘forces-friendly employer.’ Can you explain what that means and why it is essential to the company?
Being a ‘forces-friendly employer’ means actively recruiting and supporting veterans, reservists, and their families. This is crucial because veterans bring many skills and values from their military service, such as leadership, discipline, resilience, and teamwork. We believe in providing opportunities for those who have served, honouring their commitment by offering meaningful employment and helping them transition to civilian life.
Veterans and Employment
Why do you believe the facilities services industry is an ideal fit for veterans?
The facilities services industry aligns well with veterans’ skills and experiences. Their ability to handle complex, high-pressure situations, adaptability, and strong work ethic make them ideal for roles in our sector. Whether managing security, maintaining facilities, or providing customer service, veterans’ military training and experiences prepare them well for these responsibilities.
How does OCS support veterans transitioning from military service to civilian employment?
We aim to provide support in a few ways, including tailored training programmes that bridge military skills to civilian roles, mentorship schemes pairing veterans with experienced colleagues, and career development opportunities. Our partnership with organisations like The Poppy Factory helps us connect with veterans, understand their unique needs, and offer personalised support and guidance. Our early involvement with veteran resettlement programmes has also played a vital role in providing this support, helping veterans transition smoothly from military to civilian life.
Social Mobility and Investment
How does OCS promote social mobility within the company?
We create pathways for all colleagues to advance. We focus on inclusive hiring practices, continuous professional development, and providing opportunities for career progression. Our apprenticeship and training programmes are designed to help colleagues at all levels enhance their skills and advance within the company. We believe in promoting from within and supporting our colleagues’ growth and development.
What specific initiatives does OCS have in place to invest in the professional development of its colleagues, particularly veterans?
We offer several initiatives aimed at professional development, including apprenticeships and bespoke training programmes. These programmes focus on leadership development, technical skills, and industry-specific knowledge. We also have mentoring schemes where colleagues, including veterans, can receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Specifically, partnerships with veteran support and development organisations ensure our veteran colleagues can access various resources and support.
Making People and Places the Best They Can Be
One of OCS’s goals is to make people and places the best they can be. How do veterans contribute to achieving this goal?
Veterans bring our team a unique perspective and a strong sense of unity. Their commitment to excellence and ability to work under pressure contribute significantly to our goal of making people and places the best they can be. They help us maintain high service standards, drive continuous improvement, and inspire their colleagues with dedication and work ethic.
How does OCS ensure a supportive and inclusive work environment for all its colleagues, including veterans?
We foster a culture based on our TRUE values: Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment. Our policies and practices support all colleagues, including veterans, through flexible working arrangements, mental health support, and a comprehensive induction programme that helps new hires integrate smoothly.
Armed Forces Day and Community Engagement
What would you like to convey to the public and the OCS team on Armed Forces Day?
On Armed Forces Day, I want to thank all who have served and continue to serve. Let’s continue to support our veteran colleagues and honour the values they represent. Our commitment to being a forces-friendly employer is strong, and we will remain committed to this community.
Can you talk about OCS’s work with The Poppy Factory and the significance of this partnership?
Our partnership with The Poppy Factory is crucial in helping veterans find meaningful employment. The Poppy Factory supports veterans with health conditions at work, and we are proud to collaborate with them to offer opportunities within OCS. This partnership significantly impacts veterans’ lives, helping them transition to civilian life with dignity and purpose. It also aligns with our values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
Armed Forces Covenant and Troopr Partnership
OCS has committed to the Armed Forces Covenant. Can you explain what this covenant entails and why it is significant for OCS?
The Armed Forces Covenant is a way to support the armed forces community, ensuring those who serve or have served in the military and their families are treated fairly and respectfully. Committing to the covenant is a public affirmation of our dedication to supporting the military community and reflects our drive to provide opportunities and support for veterans and their families. Before the merger both legacy OCS and Atalian Servest had pledged to the covenant, as a newly merged business, OCS is now taking the necessary steps to renew our pledges and apply for Silver status in the employer recognition scheme as part of the covenant.
How will the partnership with Troopr benefit veterans and forces-friendly employers like OCS?
Our partnership with Troopr will enhance our ability to connect with veterans and provide them with tailored employment opportunities. Troopr’s platform helps match veterans’ skills with the right roles within OCS, ensuring a better fit and a greater chance of sustainable employment. This partnership also strengthens our reputation as a forces-friendly employer.
Future Plans and Vision
How do you see the role of veterans evolving within OCS in the coming years?
I see veterans playing an increasingly vital role within our organisation. As we continue to grow, veterans’ skills and leadership qualities will be more critical than ever. We will expand our support programmes and create more opportunities for veterans to take on leadership roles, helping drive our business forward and maintain our high service and operational excellence standards.
What advice would you give to other companies looking to become more force-friendly and supportive of veterans?
Recognise the value that veterans bring and actively support them. Establish clear pathways for recruitment and development and create a culture that values their contributions. Partnering with veteran support organisations is another good way to understand better and meet their needs. Most importantly, listen to veterans and involve them in shaping your policies and programmes.
Personal Reflections
As a veteran yourself, what personal experiences have influenced your leadership style and vision for OCS?
My military service taught me the importance of leadership, resilience, and teamwork, which has shaped my approach to leading OCS. I believe in leading by example, being transparent, and trying my best to create an environment where everyone can thrive. The vision for OCS is rooted in these values, ensuring we are a company that supports and uplifts all our colleagues. This vision is vital to building the best teams, built on a culture of trust, respect, unity, and empowerment, recognising and developing individual strengths, promoting collaboration, and ensuring every team member feels valued and heard. This approach helps us deliver the best customer outcomes and creates a workplace where our colleagues can excel and grow together.
Closing
Finally, what is the most important takeaway you want readers to remember about OCS and its commitment to veterans?
The most important takeaway is that OCS supports veterans and the armed forces community. We value their skills and provide them with meaningful, rewarding careers. This commitment is a core part of who we are, and we will continue to strive for the best experience, productivity, practices, resilience, and outcomes for all our colleagues and communities.
In a remarkable display of unity and determination, over 300 colleagues from OCS embarked on a virtual journey along the historic River Thames, all with a common goal: to raise funds for two deserving charities—London Youth Rowing and OCS Foundation. Race the Thames, saw participants from various corners of the company, including our Group CEO Rob Legge, engage in an array of inventive activities to cover the 346km distance of the iconic river.
The response was fantastic, with 360 participants joining forces and forming 45 teams, each committed to making a difference. From swimming to walking, skipping to bouncing on trampolines, participants found inventive ways to contribute to this noble cause. Each completed activity added to the collective effort, showcasing the power of unity in pursuit of a common goal. These dedicated individuals collectively completed an impressive 2,584 activities, totalling an astounding 4,211 hours.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Race the Thames was seeing people come together across the business for a common good. In addition to OCS colleagues, several esteemed partners, including Birkets, BDO, Client Share, and RKStyles, joined in. This collective effort underscores our TRUE values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
We are committed to making a positive difference in the world, consistent with our vision and mission. The over £25,000 raised serves as a testament to the power of collective action in driving social change. By supporting London Youth Rowing (LYR) and the OCS Foundation, we are empowering young people, driving change, and leaving a legacy of positive transformation.
London Youth Rowing has been instrumental in empowering young individuals through rowing, providing life skills programs and mentoring that have a profound and lasting impact. Likewise, the OCS Foundation has a proven track record of driving positive change and has already transformed the lives of over 150 individuals facing various barriers to employment.
As we reflect on Race the Thames, we extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to its success and look forward to the next fundraising event. We remain committed to continuing our efforts to leave people and places better than we found them.
Today marks World Autism Awareness Day, a day dedicated to transforming narratives around autism. Approximately 700,000 individuals diagnosed with autism live in the UK and Ireland, each with their unique experience of autism.
We are constantly expanding our social value initiatives within our local communities and understand the importance of creating safe spaces for autistic and neurodiverse people. A prime example of this is the new sensory room we helped build at the Scottish Autism New Struan School, designed to enrich the learning experience of its pupils.
New Struan School is an independent day and residential school for autistic youth. The school provides a safe, friendly, and stimulating environment where children and young people can learn, interact, and have fun. For over 35 years, New Struan School has been at the forefront of specialist education for autistic children and young people.
Our team collaborated closely with the school to ensure the refurbishment of the existing sensory room best catered to the students’ needs. We did this by creating an internal space that has an external feel. We’re delighted to have supported this project, and we hope all students at New Struan School enjoy their new tailored learning space.
The partnership with OCS has been an absolute dream for us. The team fully supported our vision, and nothing was too much to ask. We wanted the sensory room to be part of the everyday sensory regulation for our young people and integrated into the curriculum. The benefit our young people will get from this calm, beautiful sensory space is immeasurable.
Lee-Anne McAulay
New Struan Head Teacher
Additionally, as part of our CHROMA network and through our Wellbeing committee, we encourage our neurodivergent colleagues to openly share their lived experiences, insights, and explore support avenues. All individuals interested in being allies, expanding their understanding, and supporting neurodivergent colleagues are welcome.
Over 300 colleagues across OCS are commencing a virtual race along the River Thames to raise money for two charities doing essential work within communities and with people who might otherwise not benefit.
The Race
From our Group CEO Rob Legge, to teams on the frontline, Colleagues across OCS are finding inventive ways to complete the 346km distance of the iconic River Thames.
Whether the individuals are swimming, walking, skipping, or bouncing around on a space hopper, the teams will all be tracking the distances completed and uploading it to a virtual race arena where they can watch their boat travel down the Thames.
We’re also thrilled to announce that several OCS partners are joining us in this initiative. Birkets, BDO, Client Share, and RKStyles are just a few of the partners taking part in and supporting this incredible cause.
Participation in this event aligns with our business ethos and TRUE Values and it contributes to the commitments that we make daily around ESG and social impact. It’s empowerment at its very best.
Our Charities
London Youth Rowing (LYR),since its inception in 2004, has focused on empowering young people through the sport of rowing. The charity provides life skills programmes and mentoring, which transform lives and leave a lasting impact on the individuals they reach, their families, and their communities. We are proud to be partnering with them with a shared vision of leaving people and places better than we met them.
The OCS Foundation, established in 2016, has a track record of driving change and delivering projects that have a direct and positive impact on society and the communities we serve. A notable initiative is our industry-inclusive People-into-Work programme. This programme has already assisted over 150 people, who have faced various barriers to work, from homeless to substance abuse, with the necessary support and training to transition into sustainable employment. At its core, the OCS Foundation improves lives and communities, and we are proud to be a part of it.
In an esteemed visit to the Clarence House, hosted by Her Majesty Queen Camilla, in celebration of The Poppy Factory’s centenary, OCS was invited to join The Queen in celebrating the brilliant work of the Poppy Factory. Reflecting our collaborative efforts with the charity, we were granted two places—an exceptional gesture, considering most organisations receive only one. Present at the event were Toni-Marie Vaughan, Head of Social Mobility, and Tony Crilly, People Director for the UK & Ireland.
The Poppy Factory, a prominent employment charity, focuses on reintegrating veterans into the workforce after their military service. The veterans they assist often face formidable challenges within the Armed Forces community, contending with complex mental and physical health conditions compounded by issues such as homelessness and addiction.
OCS takes immense pride in its partnership with this significant organisation through the ‘People into Work’ program. Launched in 2019, this initiative has evolved through insights gathered from our operational teams, strategic partners, and candidates, allowing us to maximise our social value impact.
Since its inception, the People into Work program has facilitated the employment of 176 individuals. By actively hiring people with various barriers to employment, the program empowers them and contributes to our work culture by promoting diverse experiences, fostering inclusivity, and championing diversity.
We are profoundly honoured to have received an invitation to such a pivotal and momentous occasion. Our commitment to supporting The Poppy Factory’s work aligns with our dedication to advancing social mobility in the UK for our former servicemen.
We have been working with the Capucas (COCAFCAL) Co-operative and donating £2 from every case of coffee we purchase, which then pays into a revolving fund that helps improve the living standards for the smaller coffee bean producers.
The needs of the farming community changes regularly, so the Giveback Programme allows the money to be invested in funds where it matters and is needed the most. The fund has been developed as support to small producers’ specific needs such as improvement of housing, shelters and production infrastructure – which will benefit both the producers and their families, with the aim of increasing the economic and productive income for the farmers of the Capucas.
From courses on growing vegetables to reduce food costs and improve health, to providing tools they need to harvest, as well as basic housing and infrastructure improvements, the fund helps with whatever the community needs.
This year our Groundhouse Give Back Programme has hit an amazing total of £10,000!
This money will positively impact improving living standards in the farming communities, from where we source some of our Blend 7 coffee. We are incredibly proud of our teams, they have been working extremely hard to promote our Groundhouse Coffee brand and have been serving nothing less than the best coffee.
“We decided to start a field school for the implementation of vegetables where more than 30+ Households have participated, including young people between 17 to 25 years and adults. This will benefit small producers, who lack suitable conditions to live in dignity and offer better spaces to their coffee in each harvest. It’s also being used for inputs, equipment, and first-hand tools such as mowers, pumps, inputs, etc. Thankyou Groundhouse, this money will change lives!”
On 14th December 2023, we had the pleasure of hosting the UK-ASEAN Business Council (UKABC) roundtable that involved Thai Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Thani Thongphakdi, visiting our London office.
Our colleagues had the opportunity to listen to Thani Thongphakdi share his thoughts on a number of topics, including upcoming Government events, our cultural economy and the pivotal role that ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) plays in our society.
“I was particularly impressed with the discussion highlighting the significance of social mobility for PCS Thailand and OCS Group, emphasising the need for fostering vocational skills development alongside academic achievement. These conversations resonated deeply with our commitments and values at OCS.”
Gavin Wainer
OCS Group Commercial Officer
What is UKABC?
UKABC is a leading organisation on all matters involving ASEAN. They provide awareness on the latest opportunities in the region and assist UK companies looking to expand their operations into markets across Southeast Asia.
Valerie Dale, OCS Group Chief People Officer, recently attended a back to the floor visit at one of our laundry facilities in Feltham.
Valerie’s day began with a tour of the site where she saw our fantastic colleagues and machinery in action. During the tour she learnt some impressive stats about the facilities, including that from January 2023 to August 2023, our dedicated team washed 74,675,556 kgs and processed 46,414,728 pieces of laundry, a true showcase of how exceptional our colleagues are at what they do!
Valerie’s first job of the day was ironing and her skills were put to the test as she aimed to meet the hourly ironing targets our colleagues achieve.
She then got stuck in with the laundry sorting where she worked with the team to make sure each item was put into the correct bag before it was prepared to be washed. After only 45 minutes, Valerie and the team managed to sort through an impressive 2.2 tonnes of laundry!
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.”
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!
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device and the processing of information obtained via those cookies (including about your preferences, device and online activity) by us and our commercial partners to enhance site navigation, personalise ads, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. More information can be found in our Cookies and Privacy Policy. You can amend your cookie settings to reject non-essential cookies by clicking Cookie Settings.
