These services span a combined 74 sites. SCTS is an independent body that provides administrative support to the Scottish Courts, devolved tribunals and the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). The COPFS is Scotland’s prosecution service and death investigation authority.

This new contract follows a previous six-year contract from 2017 to 2023, with an added extension to June 2024. It strengthens a relationship with OCS and its predecessors that has lasted over 13 years. The core services provided include cleaning, maintenance services, security and projects.

The latest contract award is a testament to OCS’s consistent service provision. OCS won the contract through a competitive tender process, SCTS and COPFS choosing to continue their association with OCS, who emerged as the best solution for their varied site needs.

Of the sites managed by SCTS and COPFS, 44% were established before 1960 and 86% of those before 1900, classifying them as historical listed sites. OCS faces the challenge of maintaining and future-proofing these sites, making them more eco-friendly while preserving their historical significance. In 2023, OCS completed 15 sustainability projects across their estates and helped COPFS secure £10.8 million in funding for retrofitting and decarbonising their buildings. OCS also surpassed its 15% carbon emission reduction target for SCTS, achieving a remarkable 27% reduction instead.

As part of the new contract, OCS will implement their smart building technology to better monitor carbon emissions and optimise site productivity. They also plan to employ more cleaning robotics to streamline cleaning processes. When it comes to security, they implement a “target zero accident” approach, focusing on proactive and de-escalation techniques to prevent accidents and ensure no harm comes to staff, clients, and the public.

In terms of social responsibility, OCS commitment includes continuing to support Scottish Autism and Women’s Refuge, two charities active in the communities served by this contract. Scottish Autism is the largest provider of autism-specific services in Scotland and Women’s Refuge is the UK’s largest specialist domestic abuse organisation. Additionally, OCS will support grassroots football teams and introduce volunteer days for managers and supervisors every year.

Colin Rushforth, account director at OCS, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our relationship with SCTS and COPFS for another seven years. Our shared commitment to service excellence, sustainability, and social responsibility has been the cornerstone of our partnership, and we look forward to building upon this legacy in the years to come.”

Kate Leer, director - property & services unit at the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Services, added: “Following a competitive tendering process we have decided to continue our partnership with OCS. Their consistent excellence in service delivery, their innovative approach to sustainability and their commitment to social responsibility were key in our decision.

“Our historic sites present a unique challenge and we are pleased to work with them again to further reduce carbon emissions building on significant reductions over recent years. We believe OCS will continue to provide the best support for our facilities management needs over the next seven years.”