Serco

Serco

Serco Group plc is a British multinational corporation that provides public services in various sectors, including health, transport, justice, immigration, defense, and citizens services. Headquartered in Hook, Hampshire, England, Serco operates across the globe, with significant operations in the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East.

History

Serco was originally founded in 1929 as RCA Services Limited, a United Kingdom division of the Radio Corporation of America. The company initially focused on providing services to the cinema industry. Over the decades, Serco expanded its operations and diversified its service offerings, eventually becoming a major player in the outsourcing and public services sector.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Serco began to win contracts to manage public services, including the operation of the UK's ballistic missile early warning system at RAF Fylingdales and the management of the Docklands Light Railway in London. The company was listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1988.

Operations

Serco operates in a variety of sectors, providing services that include:

• Health: Serco provides healthcare support services, including facilities management, patient administration, and clinical support services.
• Transport: The company manages and operates public transport systems, including railways and buses.
• Justice and Immigration: Serco operates prisons, detention centers, and provides probation services.
• Defense: The company offers support services to military operations, including logistics, training, and operational support.
• Citizen Services: Serco provides a range of services to government agencies, including contact centers, case management, and IT services.

Controversies

Serco has been involved in several controversies over the years, particularly related to its management of public services. Some of the notable controversies include:

• Prison Management: Serco has faced criticism for its management of prisons, with reports of poor conditions and inadequate staffing.
• Electronic Tagging Scandal: In 2013, Serco was involved in a scandal over the overcharging of the UK government for the electronic tagging of offenders, leading to a significant financial settlement and reputational damage.

Financial Performance

Serco's financial performance has fluctuated over the years, with periods of growth and contraction. The company has undergone restructuring efforts to improve its financial stability and focus on core service areas.

Also see

• Outsourcing
• Public Services
• Privatization
• Facilities Management

References

• [Serco Group plc Official Website](https://www.serco.com)
• [London Stock Exchange: Serco Group plc](https://www.londonstockexchange.com/stock/SRP/serco-group-plc/company-page)