The Summary
OCS partners with Veterans Aid to support UK veterans through volunteering and community events. Most recently, the charity hosted a BBQ event at New Belvedere House, its flagship residential facility in East London.
The Brief
Veterans Aid is a UK-based charity supporting former armed forces members in crisis. They provide immediate, practical help to veterans facing homelessness, unemployment, addiction, mental health challenges or social isolation.
Through its flagship residential facility and a network of support services, Veterans Aid offers safe accommodation, tailored rehabilitation and access to training, employment and long-term housing. Its mission is to help veterans move from crisis to stability, ensuring they have the tools to live sustainable, independent lives.
The Background
With summer approaching, the OCS team wanted to offer Veterans Aid residents formal service delivery and a genuine sense of community. The goal was to bring people together in a relaxed, welcoming environment to lift spirits and reinforce that veterans are recognised, supported and valued.
The Solution
OCS’s Catering and Armed Forces Network teams devised and delivered a BBQ at New Belvedere House. With fresh produce donated by Dole, our team prepared burgers, pulled pork, jacket potatoes and a vibrant selection of salads and vegetables. Four OCS team members volunteered their time on the day, serving over 60 residents and 10 support colleagues. The event created a space for shared meals, open conversation and connection between veterans, support workers and volunteers.
The Outcome
The BBQ brought recognition and a sense of community to everyone involved. It also served as a tangible expression of the values upheld by our OCS Armed Forces Network, which celebrates and supports veterans within our workforce and the wider community.
Impact at a Glance:
- 60+ veterans and support colleagues served
- 4 OCS team members volunteered
- 48 total volunteer hours contributed
- Fresh produce donated by Dole
- Strengthened partnerships with Veterans Aid and City of London Police
This BBQ was a significant step forward in our ongoing relationship with Veterans Aid. We remain committed to supporting the armed forces community in ways that matter.
“We are extremely grateful to OCS and Dole for supporting our work in such a meaningful, personal and practical manner. Preparing and sharing food is a wonderful way of lifting spirits and reminding our residents that they are acknowledged and valued.”
Dr Hugh Milroy
CEO at Veterans Aid
“Supporting our veterans is something we really care about at OCS. Small acts of community like this mean a lot to us, and we’re proud to be working with Veterans Aid, who do such vital work. We were introduced through Richard Scullion from our City of London contract, and it’s great to see how many of our clients share our values when it comes to supporting veterans. We’re looking forward to continuing our work with Veterans Aid in the future.”
Kellie Newell
Social Value and Innovation Practitioner at OCS
