University partner Sodexo has delivered facilities management services to Greenwich since 2020, providing a range of activities including security and maintenance. As a strategic partner, it also supports students to develop the skills that matter to employers through workshops and events, internships, part-time work and graduate positions.
It has now published an overview of its social impact in 2024, reflecting numerous ways it has made a difference within our community by promoting sustainability, inclusion, local employment, skills development and community engagement.
Below we highlight just some of the ways Sodexo makes an impact through its work with the University of Greenwich. Find out more in the full report here.
Environmental sustainability: Waste management innovations As part of its sustainability strategy, Sodexo piloted a food waste recycling scheme at Devonport House, diverting 480kg of waste from general disposal and improving recycling rates by 8%. This complements broader environmental efforts, including reducing gas usage by up to 35% and donating reusable items to local charities. These actions minimise our environmental impact and promoting responsible waste practices at the University of Greenwich.
Inclusion and employment: Supporting neurodiverse interns through the DFN Project Sodexo actively supports DFN Project SEARCH by hosting internships for young adults with autism and learning difficulties at the Medway campus. These supported internships offer practical experience in cleaning and portering roles, helping interns transition from education to employment.
Sodexo’s staff benefit as well, gaining valuable experience working alongside neurodiverse colleagues. Plans are in place to expand this initiative to other campuses, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusion and meaningful employment opportunities.
Local impact: Empowering local communities through responsible sourcing Sodexo directed over £800,000 in spend towards local micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) and VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) partners.
Around 70% of its procurement is with these organisations, helping to boost the local economy. All contracts include a modern slavery clause, and suppliers must adhere to a code of ethics, ensuring ethical and sustainable practices across the supply chain.
Promoting Health and Inclusion: Free period products In partnership with Egal, as part of Inclusion Week in September 2024, free plant-based
sanitary products were made available to all female Sodexo employees at Avery Hill, Greenwich, and Medway.
This initiative was not just about providing physical products - it was about recognising the dignity, comfort, and wellbeing of women in the workplace.
To support this, a session on period poverty was led by Niamh D’Arcy from Egal, offering insights into the scale of the issue both in the UK and globally. The session highlighted how lack of access to menstrual products affects education, work attendance, and mental health - especially for those in lower-income groups. The awareness campaign underscored the importance of inclusive policies that remove hidden barriers for women and create a more supportive work environment.
