OCU Group Wins Social Value Award at SSEN Sustainability Supplier Awards

We are pleased to announce that OCU Group has been named the winner in the Social Value category at the 2024/25 Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Sustainability Supplier Awards.

This recognition highlights the meaningful impact of our ongoing commitment to creating long-term social value in the communities we serve.

Over the past year, we’ve strengthened partnerships with local organisations and further embedded environmental and social initiatives into our operations.

This award reflects the collective effort of our teams, partners, and communities. We’re proud of the recognition from SSEN and as we continue this journey, we remain committed to expanding our impact through sustainable, socially valuable projects.

Hear about a few examples that have contributed to this achievement: Supporting Wildlife Trusts Across the Region

We’ve partnered with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and Berks, Bucks & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) to support conservation and biodiversity initiatives. From habitat restoration and environmental education to volunteering at sites such as Great Wood, our teams are actively helping to protect natural habitats and strengthen community connections through environmental work.

Inspiring the Next Generation through STEM

As part of our partnership with SSEN, we took part in a STEM event in Oxford with SmartSTEMs and the University of Oxford. Our team delivered an interactive workshop to students, introducing them to engineering through activities like dam building. The event encouraged young people to explore STEM careers while sharing the importance of sustainability and innovation in infrastructure.

Promoting Local Employment and Skills Development

Throughout the year, we’ve continued to champion local employment and procurement, embedding social value into every stage of our project delivery. This commitment was further demonstrated through our presence at the Kassam Stadium Career Fest, where we provided career insight and opportunities to young people exploring their future professions.

Continuing Our Commitment

We don't stand still at OCU, so following the award our teams have already continued to deliver meaningful impact. At the end of June, volunteers from OCU Group and SSEN supported BBOWT at Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve, helping to remove invasive Himalayan balsam and restore valuable habitats.

We also carried out improvement works at the Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, upgrading the car park and adding accessible parking spaces with improved surfacing. These improvements will enhance safety and ensure inclusive access for all visitors, including wheelchair users to the 19-acre nature reserve.

At the 2025 Confident Future Skills Show, we engaged with individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), sharing pathways into construction, engineering, and sustainability careers.

At OCU, we are committed to supporting spaces and events that bring people closer together and to nature - and making sure those experiences are inclusive for everyone.