Environmental, Social & Governance
Our UK & Ireland ESG team recently published its ESG Impact Report for 2024. The report sets out how colleagues are putting our TRUE values, Trust, Respect, Unity and Empowerment, into daily practice and how this is driving progress across People, Planet and Trust. It also reinforces our mission to help people and places reach their full potential.
People
Colleagues across the UK and Ireland helped create £86 million in social value in 2024. Inclusive recruitment routes, including the People into Work programme, supported 378 people into employment, surpassing the target of 300 and building on the progress made in previous years.
Colleagues raised more than £143,000 for charity through the OCS Foundation, keeping the organisation on track to reach the £500,000 target by 2030. Each initiative reflects the commitment of teams who work every day to create opportunities and positive outcomes in the communities we serve.
Planet
Progress towards our 2040 net zero target continued in 2024, supported by sustained improvements across our operations. Ninety-two per cent of the electricity used in our offices and operated sites came from renewable sources, further reducing our reliance on conventional energy.
Our approach to waste also strengthened, with structured reporting now in place and 99 per cent of waste diverted from landfill. This greater visibility helps teams focus their efforts where they can deliver the most meaningful environmental gains, while recognising that there is more to do as we refine processes and deepen our impact in the years ahead.
Trust
Good governance remained central throughout the year. OCS achieved ISO 22301 certification for business continuity management, further strengthening resilience across operations. Updates to the Supplier Code of Conduct improved expectations for responsible procurement, with 71 per cent of Tier 1 and 2 suppliers signing up. The report also confirms zero incidents of modern slavery or human rights breaches.
“2024 was a year of meaningful progress. We strengthened the business while maintaining a clear focus on significantly reducing environmental impact and increasing social value. Our sustainability journey will take time. It will be challenging, but our direction is clear and our determination to meet our targets is stronger than ever.”
Daniel Dickson
Chief Executive Officer, UK & Ireland
Turning Strategy Into Action
In summary, our ESG efforts continue to accelerate across the UK and Ireland. Colleagues helped generate £86 million in social value in 2024, and inclusive recruitment pathways, including the People into Work programme, supported 378 people into employment, surpassing the target of 300 and maintaining the steady growth of recent years. There is still more to be done, and these results provide a strong foundation to deepen our impact in the years ahead.
The ESG Impact Report demonstrates how intentional behaviours, strong partnerships, and informed, data-driven decisions are enhancing outcomes for colleagues, customers, and communities. It emphasises practical steps that guide more responsible and resilient services, all rooted in our mission to make people and places the best they can be.
