OCS Team Lend a Hand to Transform Sensory Garden for Adult Services Users

OCS’s values of care, community, and commitment go beyond facilities management; they’re about making a real difference where we work. A great example of this is the recent transformation of a sensory garden at the Portway Lifestyle Centre. Our colleagues from FES (now part of the OCS Group) gave their time, energy, and skills to support a local Adult Services team.

Adult Services is a department linked to the local council. It has been a tenant at Portway Lifestyle Centre for over 14 years. The department supports vulnerable adults with learning and physical disabilities. They aim to make essential facilities safe, accessible, and welcoming.

A Dedicated Team

We have delivered facilities management and maintenance services at the centre for around six years. During that time, Wade and his team, Mick, Rob, and Ian, have built a strong and trusted relationship with the team at Adult Services. The nature of their work means communication is key. So, our team has consistently prioritised this. We ensure that services are delivered with empathy and attention to the specific needs of the centre’s users.

A Partnership that Blooms

That trusted partnership recently inspired something special.

When the Adult Services team needed help to refurbish their well-used but ageing sensory garden, they turned to Wade to ask if he or his team could lend a hand. Without hesitation, and giving up their own time, including lunch breaks, the team stepped in. Over several days, they carried out repairs, secured raised beds, and supported the overall upgrade of the garden space.

The result? A rejuvenated garden area where users can relax, connect with nature, and enjoy sensory activities. With the beds now ready, the team at Adult Services can begin planting herbs and adding sensory items to further enrich the space.

Mike, Lynn, and everyone at Adult Services shared their heartfelt thanks:

This story is a fantastic example of how our people live the OCS values every day—delivering exceptional service, building community, and going the extra mile to make a meaningful impact.