ESS Energy, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, is formalising its longstanding relationship with the UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy by naming the organisation as a strategic charity partner. The company will support project activity for the charity, as well as undertaking a range of fundraising across its estate.
The UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy offers pastoral care and financial support to those who work or have worked in the industry and their dependents. The Chaplaincy was founded in the late 1980s and the current chaplain, the Reverend Gordon Craig, continues to ensure the organisation remains as an integral part of the UK oil and gas industry. The charity cares for everyone, regardless of faith, or none, and beneficiaries are supported in their workplaces and homes.
ESS has previously supported the Chaplaincy by bringing together two Aberdeenshire suppliers, Barra Berries and Summerhouse Drinks, to create a raspberry lemonade drink – with 10p from the sale of each bottle being donated to the charity.
Future projects include the upcoming launch of a sustainable bag that will be sold in ESS units on and offshore, with profits going to the Chaplaincy, and the development of a cookbook to support the organisation’s work.
ESS will continue to work with the UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy team to identify opportunities for collaboration and fundraising.
ESS Energy provides a wide range of catering and Soft FM services to offshore locations in the UK, North Sea and Netherlands. The company operates in all manner of environments, from gas plants, heliports and airline lounges to platforms, FPSOs, floatels and drilling rigs, as well as supporting clients in their offices onshore.
Reverend Gordon Craig, Chaplain – The UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy, commented:
“The UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy is delighted to have been selected as a strategic partner by ESS. The role of the Chaplaincy is simply to support workers and families within the oil and gas industry. No one is immune to the challenges that life can throw and our aim to care for families in need – listening, understanding and providing emotional and financial support – will be greatly assisted by this partnership with ESS. I look forward to seeing it develop and flourish.”
Ronnie Kelman, Managing Director – ESS Energy, Government & Infrastructure, commented:
“The oil and gas sector is a demanding one, with thousands of workers spending weeks away from family and friends, often in challenging conditions. The UK Oil & Gas Chaplaincy provides important and wide-ranging support to beneficiaries, many of whom are ESS customers, and I’m delighted that we can play a part in helping the organisation to reach as many people as possible.”
