A CLEAR mission is more than a statement on a website or in a handbook; it is the heartbeat of an organisation. For companies operating within critical industries such as cleaning, hygiene, and facilities management, a strong mission becomes the foundation for quality, trust, and long-term impact. At BICSc, our mission – to raise standards of education and build awareness of the cleaning industry through professional standards and accredited training – perfectly illustrates why clarity of purpose is so essential. It is not only aspirational but also actionable, shaping the work we do and the outcomes we aim to achieve.

Our mission provides a guiding direction: to elevate education and awareness within the cleaning sector. This clarity ensures that every partnership or initiative supports a single, unified purpose. In industries where safety, professionalism, and compliance are paramount, having such a mission creates organisational focus. It ensures decisions are not made in isolation but are aligned with the broader goal of enhancing standards and promoting best practice across the sector.

A clear mission also helps everyone understand why you exist and what you seek to achieve. It becomes a shared anchor that your organisation remains purpose driven.

The BICSc mission has embedded commitments that highlight why what we do matters. The key focus on protecting the operative underscores a genuine dedication to safeguarding those working on the front line. In an industry where operatives face hazards, time pressures, and increasing expectations, training and professional development become essential tools for protection.

This emphasis not only improves safety outcomes but also empowers operatives with the competence and confidence needed to perform to high standards.

BICSc commitment to providing a clean and safe environment and producing best practice speaks to the heart of your organisational impact. Accredited training, professional frameworks, and structured learning pathways ensure that the highest standards are consistently achieved. This not only improves service delivery but also strengthens the reputation of the cleaning industry, helping it gain the recognition and respect it deserves.

All businesses looking to strengthen their mission should remember that a mission acts as a reminder that quality is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate, standards-driven practice. When everyone understands this, a business becomes unified in its pursuit of excellence.

Employees want to feel that the work they do matters. A compelling mission taps into that need for meaning. It tells staff that they are contributing to something larger, whether that’s improving industry standards, delivering exceptional customer experiences, or creating positive impact.

When employees feel connected to a mission

• Engagement increases
• Productivity rises
• Retention improves
• Job satisfaction and pride grow.

In a sector like cleaning, where the quality of training has a direct impact on safety, hygiene, and public health, being able to have a strong mission and set of goals in mind is a critical component of organisational integrity.

A clear mission and defined goals bring purpose, alignment, and meaning to an organisation’s work. In BICSccase, the mission does more than guide operations; it elevates the entire cleaning industry. By focusing on education, protection, sustainability, best practice, and standards, it not only improves individual performance but also strengthens the sector’s reputation and future. When a company knows exactly what it stands for, the path to lasting impact becomes clear, powerful, and achievable.

Help support the BICSc mission by becoming a member today! https://tinyurl.com/bdpwrwks

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

I'M SURE everyone has heard of companies marketing that they have created chemical-free cleaning products or even that their cleaning process is chemical-free, which seems like a wonderful idea. The less wonderful part is that there is zero logic behind this claim, and I am yet to see many other people point this out and so here I am putting my head above the parapet, ready for it to be shot at!

The term chemical is often thrown into conversations, but it is just as often used incorrectly. The definition of a chemical is any substance made up of matter, which means that everything around us is made of chemicals. This includes naturally occurring substances such as water, salt and oxygen, which aren’t inherently harmful. So why has the term become associated with potentially toxic substances and led to this increased demand for “chemical-free” alternatives?

The “chemical-free” alternatives rely on naturally occurring ingredients, including things such as vinegar, lemon juice or baking soda, which are perceived to be the safer and more environmentally friendly versions of their synthetic counterparts. The advantages of these cleaning products are that they have a smaller environmental footprint, as a lot are biodegradable and reduce exposure to potentially toxic substances. These products definitelyhave their benefits, but are they labelled incorrectly? This increases the chance of consumers or end users being misinformed about the products they are using. The unique selling point of these products is surely the lack of harsh synthetic chemicals, and so do we need to marketthese correctly, as containing natural chemicals, not chemical-free.

The standard “chemical-based” cleaning products are relied on for good reason, for their effectiveness in ensuring surfaces are hygienically clean. It should be noted that there are obvious possible health risks from frequent exposure to strong chemicals. This is the reason why there is a marketplace for natural or less harsh chemical products, which isn’t what is up for debate.

The important thing is that the best products for a task are based on the specific needs and circumstances, so I can’t tell you for definite in this article whether you should stick to the standard chemicals or if you should move to these supposed chemical-free products. I can tell you for certain that different jobs have different needs. High-risk areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, or clinical settings, may still require the use of stronger chemical products to ensure proper hygiene standards are maintained. However, for everyday maintenance, the use of “chemical-free” methods can be both effective and have the added benefits of being safer for everyone and the planet. 

In drawing this article to a close, I want to make my point clear. The use of “chemical-free” products isn’t inherently bad or wrong; it is the term itself that is the problem. 

Companies marketing products this way to make them automatically seem like the better and safer option are technically spreading incorrect information with false claims, as it is impossible for products to be free from chemicals. Products like this should be labelled differently as “harsh chemicals free” to ensure that consumers are aware of what they are purchasing. The moral of the story is that the cleaning industry needs to work on the language we all use to avoid ‘clickbaiting’ consumers and end users, therefore, allowing them to make informed choices. 

And perhaps we will see some changes with the new ECGT Directive, which will come into force shortly, ensuring that environmental and sustainability claims are kept honest, truthfuland most importantly accurate! 

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

IN A recent address at the Summer Court Lunch of the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, I emphasised the critical importance of respect within the cleaning industry. I began with a light-hearted acknowledgement of the struggle with abbreviations, a common challenge that many can relate to. The aim was to set a friendly and approachable tone for the serious message that followed.

The core of the speech focused on the legacy of Eric Hill, the founder of both the British Institute of Cleaning Science and the Environmental Cleaners. Hill's mission was to professionalise the cleaning industry and ensure that those working within it, particularly the cleaning operatives, received the respect they deserved. This legacy of respect is a cornerstone of the industry's ongoing efforts to elevate its standards and recognition.

I posed a thought-provoking question: Do we have complete respect within our industry? This internal respect is crucial for gaining respect from others. Respect is built on a foundation of training, knowledge, and progression. A recognised qualification with a Royal Charter, like the Environmental Cleaners Chartered Practitioner, is a powerful tool for fostering respect and professionalism within the industry.

While government backing would be beneficial, the industry cannot afford to wait for external support to make progress. There is much that can be done from within the industry to help itself, and who better to lead these efforts than those who are already part of it? This call to action is a rallying cry for industry professionals to take ownership of their future and work collaboratively to create new opportunities.

The British Institute of Cleaning Science and the Environmental Cleaners are leading by example in this regard. I explained how Darren Marston, upon becoming Master, approached us to explore potential collaborations. Given our shared heritage in Eric Hill, it was a natural partnership. Our aim is to help individuals starting out in the industry or those already in it to fill gaps in their knowledge to achieve Chartered Practitioner status.

To support this goal, we mapped the five pillars to becoming a Chartered Practitioner to existing courses from BICSc that can help meet the requirements in most of these pillars. A dedicated webpage has been created to assist with this process. The webpage, accessible via a QR code, provides information on how the Institute can help with each of the relevant pillars and directs users to the Chartered Practitioner portal.

The swift creation of this resource was a team effort, and I must thank my team and Sam, the Clerk, for their hard work. The hope is that this will drive people through the process and help fill in the gaps in their knowledge. The team at BICSc are available to answer any questions and provide support as needed.

I ended my speech with a call to action, urging industry professionals to focus on action rather than talk. The Institute is evolving, just like any other business needs to, to remain relevant today. I encourage everyone to catch up with these changes and not view the Institute as the "elephant" or "dinosaur" in the room.

By showing those outside the industry how professional and respectful we are to each other, I do believe that this will help the industry gain the respect it craves. 

In summary, I felt the speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of respect within the cleaning industry. It highlighted the need for internal respect, the value of professional qualifications, and the power of collaboration and action. By working together and supporting each other, the industry can achieve great things and gain the respect it deserves.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

THIS YEAR'S programme blends practical knowledge with forward-thinking strategies, reflecting BICSc’s commitment to setting and maintaining the highest standards in the cleaning profession. Delegates will benefit from expert-led presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
Conference Programme Highlights

09:00–09:30 – Registration
Coffee and networking to start the day.

09:30 – Welcome
Soo Bartholomew, BICSc Chair
An introduction to the day’s themes, speakers, and the Institute’s ongoing work.

09:40 – The Influence of Social Media on the Cleaning Industry
Vikki Morris, Environment & Sustainability Manager, Evans Vanodine
Vikki examines how digital platforms are transforming cleaning from an invisible service to a high-profile, consumer-driven conversation. Expect insights into the rise of cleaning influencers, the power of user-generated content, and how visual media is shaping trends and customer expectations.

10:05 – The Future of Cleaning

Tibor Killi, Managing Director, Killis

To unlock their full potential, organisations must prioritise staff engagement, effective change management, long-term value in procurement, and reliable service support. Far from replacing people, cobotics are already shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and people-focused future for facilities management.

 

10:30 – Coffee Break

11:00 – United by Standards: Elevating Safety and Efficacy in Cleaning Across the Industry
Kelsey Hargreaves, Technical Manager, BICSc
A Youth Ambassador for Youth Employment UK, Kelsey brings operational cleaning experience from NHS settings, with expertise in training models, site inspections, and overcoming industry challenges.

11:30 – Empowering the Workplace: The Origin Secured Digital Cleaner’s Licence
Jamie Devlin, COO, Origin Secured
Jamie reveals how this groundbreaking digital credential is revolutionising compliance, training, and workforce empowerment — aligning perfectly with BICSc’s focus on skills recognition.

12:00–13:00 – Lunch

13:00 – Disinfectant Resistance and New Technologies
Dr Andrew Kemp JP, PhD, FBICSc L/RAMC
A leading authority on disinfection research, Dr Kemp addresses the growing challenge of microbial resistance and the role of sustainable cleaning innovations.

13:30 – Lessons Learnt
Denise Hanson FBICSc, Commercial Director, BICSc
A candid review of an 18-month industry trial — the good, the bad, and the lessons that provide a roadmap for implementing successful change.

14:00 – Coffee Break

14:30 – Cleaning Up Carbon: How Our Industry Can Lead the Net Zero Transition
Alan Stenson, CEO, Neutral Carbon Zone
A practical, honest, and forward-looking session on how the cleaning industry can play a central role in achieving net zero targets.

15:00 – Collaboration: The Journey to Chartered Practitioner Status
Hosted by BICSc and WCEC
An exploration of the new register for Environmental Cleaning Professionals, designed to uphold high standards and ongoing proficiency.

15:25 – Close
Neil Spencer-Cook, BICSc Group MD

The BICSc Conference is open to all registered Cleaning Excellence Conference attendees, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest thinking, connect with industry leaders, and take away practical insights to apply in your organisation.

An awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating excellence in the cleaning industry is more than just an evening of glamour. It is an opportunity to highlight achievements, motivate professionals, foster camaraderie, and elevate the industry’s reputation. Recognising the hard work and innovation within this sector can strengthen its foundations and inspire future growth.

Awards ceremonies provide a formal platform to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional contributions. Whether it is for innovative cleaning techniques, exemplary customer service, or sustainable practices, recognising individuals and organisations who excel instils pride and confidence. This recognition not only boosts morale but also encourages continued dedication and professionalism.

In the cleaning industry, many workers operate behind the scenes, ensuring environments are hygienic and safe. An awards ceremony shines a spotlight on these unsung heroes, giving them the recognition they deserve. This acknowledgement can have a profound impact on their motivation and sense of belonging within the sector.

The cleaning industry is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology and practices. Awards ceremonies can highlight groundbreaking innovations, such as new cleaning solutions, efficiency-enhancing tools, and eco-friendly approaches. By celebrating these achievements, the industry showcases its adaptability and commitment to progress.

Awards ceremonies act as a catalyst for growth. By setting benchmarks of excellence, they inspire others to pursue higher standards, learn new skills, and innovate within their roles.

Competitions linked to awards can foster a spirit of healthy rivalry among professionals and organisations. This drives ambition while encouraging others to refine their methods and strive for similar accomplishments.

Recognising standout individuals and teams creates role models for others in the industry. These examples of success can inspire new entrants and seasoned professionals alike to aim higher and contribute meaningfully to the sector.

An awards ceremony offers an opportunity for industry professionals to gather, network, and celebrate their shared achievements. This fosters a sense of unity and belonging that is essential for the sector’s growth and resilience.

By attending awards ceremonies, professionals can build relationships with peers, suppliers, and stakeholders. Such events can serve as a platform for collaboration, business opportunities, and shared learning.

Celebrating achievements collectively creates a sense of community within the industry. It reminds workers and managers alike that their efforts contribute to a greater purpose and instils pride in being part of a vital sector.

Awards ceremonies elevate the profile of the cleaning industry by showcasing its accomplishments and contributions to society. This recognition helps counter stereotypes and highlights the critical role cleaning professionals play in maintaining health, safety, and order.

A spotlight on excellence within the industry can attract new talent. Awards demonstrate that the cleaning industry values its workers and offers opportunities for recognition, growth, and rewarding careers.

An awards ceremony sends a positive message to customers and stakeholders. It highlights the industry’s commitment to quality, innovation, and professionalism, building trust and loyalty among those who rely on its services.

In today’s world, sustainability and ethics are crucial across all industries. Awards can emphasise and reward efforts to adopt green cleaning solutions, minimise waste, and uphold fair labour practices. Celebrating these initiatives not only inspires others to follow suit but also enhances the industry’s image as a responsible and forward-thinking sector.

An awards ceremony dedicated to excellence in the cleaning industry is a celebration that transcends trophies and accolades. It recognises the dedication and ingenuity of its professionals, inspires growth and innovation, fosters unity, and enhances the sector’s reputation. Such events are a powerful tool in shaping the future of the cleaning industry, transforming it into a vibrant, innovative, and respected field. By investing in recognition and celebration, the industry ensures it continues to thrive and evolve, leaving a lasting impact on workers, stakeholders, and society.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc.

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

The BICSc awards attracted a landmark surge in entries which saw a significant increase in nominations up 25% on previous years, as finalists were revealed for the renowned accolades, which celebrate the standout stars of the professional cleaning community.  

The awards proved phenomenally popular once again as BICSc announced a substantial increase in the number of nominations for this year’s awards with winners being revealed at a glittering ceremony being staged this September. 

Neil Spencer-Cook, BICSc group managing director, said: “We are delighted to reveal our impressive line-up of finalists for this year’s BICSc Awards.

“We were thrilled to receive record numbers of nominations which saw an incredible increase of 25% on previous years, which demonstrates how highly regarded the BICSc Awards are within the global professional cleaning industry. We look forward to celebrating with the winners at our awards ceremony later this year and congratulate everyone who entered and were nominated – an achievement in itself.”

The renowned awards showcase the top performers from the professional cleaning sector operating in the industry worldwide and this year’s awards include a new category – the Lifetime Achievement Award. The BICSc Awards ceremony, which is always a sell-out success, will be staged on 25th September 2025 at Whittlebury Hall & Spa, Whittlebury, Northamptonshire, with tickets going on sale from June 9th 2025.

Neil Spencer-Cook added: “We are incredibly proud that our awards recognise and reward the exceptional commitment and performance of the leading lights from our industry, and it is an opportunity to highlight the vital work that takes place on a daily basis within the diverseprofessional cleaning community.”

The finalists for award categories include:

Innovation Award

• Whitespot Facilities Management LLC
• Berkeley Services UAE LLC
• Total Clean Services Ltd
• Not Just Cleaning Limited

Environmental Award

• Deeland Ltd t/a Service Master
• Julius Rutherfoord & Co
• Not Just Cleaning Limited

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Johanna Galindo - King's College London
• Rose Dalton - 2Gether Support Solutions Limited

Corporate Member of the Year

• Deeland Ltd t/a Service Master
• Birkin Group 

Accredited Training Member (ATM) of the Year

• Deeland Ltd t/a Service Master
• King's College London
• Clarion Housing

Assessor of the Year

• Steven Goldie - HMP Addiewell
• Heby Mathew - ADNH Catering 
• Byron Andagoya Manosalvas - King's College London

Accredited Trainer of the Year

• Nadeem Iqbal - ADNH Catering
• Natalia Kaczmarek - Mitie Cleaning and Environmental Services Ltd @ Amazon
• Amaniampong Atakora - Goldsmiths University of London

Cleaning Operative of the Year

• Barrington Spencer - Bidvest Noonan
• Stephen Butterworth - 2Gether Support Solutions Limited
• Natan Blachuta - Heath and Wilstshire Ltd

Outstanding Candidate of the Year Award

• Joshua Morel - Engie Solutions KSA 
• Jolanta Cerkauskiene - Birkin Group 
• Zoe Biela - 2Gether Support Solutions Limited

Additional awards​, which are awarded by BICSc include

• The Chairman’s Award 
• The Eric Hill Award 
• The BICSc International Award 

Before the awards ceremony gets underway guests are invited to attend an exhibitionfeaturing sponsors from the sector, who will share insights and innovations alongside a conference with presentations from industry leaders.

The evening, which will be hosted by Neil Spencer-Cook and Kelsey Hargreaves from BICSc, will be dedicated to the glittering awards ceremony where winners will be unveiled.On the night a famous TV celebrity will make a guest appearance as an after-dinner speaker at the event, which includes a drinks reception, awards ceremony, three course dinner and live entertainment. 

For more information and to buy tickets visit: https://www.bics.org.uk/awards/

Entries have been flooding in for this year’s awards, with the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) announcing the deadline for submission has been extended to May 15, 2025. 

The highly anticipated awards reward and recognise the standout stars from the sector operating in the industry on a global scale and revealed a new award for 2025 – the Lifetime Achievement Award!

Every year, the Institute is inundated with exceptional entries and winners will be announced and celebrated at the awards gala ceremony, which this year will be staged on 25th September 2025 at Whittlebury Hall & Spa, Whittlebury, Northamptonshire. 

Neil Spencer-Cook, BICSc Group Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled to announce there is still time to enter our prestigious awards. This year we are delighted to unveil a new award category – the Lifetime Achievement Award! This is a new award for 2025 and will recognise an outstanding cleaning operative who has excelled in their role and shown a great commitment to their employer.

“The new prestigious accolade will be awarded to someone who has a minimum of 10 years in a cleaning operative position, who is currently a cleaning operative, and who holds a valid BICSc Licence to Practice. We are seeking to recognise an individual who has demonstrated an understanding of the cleaning operative role and who goes ‘above and beyond’ as a matter of course. It’s a fantastic new award addition aimed at recognising the vital work of the cleaning operatives who play such an integral part in our everyday lives.”

An array of award categories are available to enter this year, which include: 

Innovation Award – this award will celebrate the success of a BICSc member that has demonstrated a focus on the use of technology processes and/or learning and development to drive an innovative evolution for their business or organisation. Focus will be on improving the overall quality of service, sustainability, safety and/or cost effectiveness for the business, as well as an improved workplace experience for the cleaning operative. 

Environmental (ESG) Award – this award recognises a BICSc Corporate Member that is focused on environmental and social governance (ESG). The company will need to show a rounded and comprehensive approach to environmental and social governance within their business whose team is engaged in the journey. 

Corporate Member of the Year – presented to a BICSc Corporate Member for their commitment to the BICSc ethos and principles. 

Accredited Training Member (ATM) of the Year – this award recognises the work of an accredited training member, who through BICSc training and assessment, deliver exemplary cleaning and hygiene standards.

Assessor of the Year – this award celebrates the success of an individual assessor who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism and commitment to excellence for their students in their role as an assessor, whilst promoting the value of BICSc ethos and principals. 

Accredited Trainer of the Year – this award celebrates the success of an individual accredited trainer who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism and commitment to excellence for their students in their role as an accredited trainer. 

Cleaning Operative of the Year – this award is the most coveted accolade of all, celebrating the success of an individual cleaning operative who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism and commitment to excellence in their role. 

Outstanding Candidate of the Year - this award focuses on how a candidate has been able to achieve the recognition of becoming the outstanding candidate of the year through adversity or has gone the extra mile to complete and receive the qualifications within the workplace.

Additional awards, which will be nominated and voted on by BICSc Council include:

• The Chairman’s Award

• The Eric Hill Award

• The BICSc International Award

This year’s awards will include a daytime and evening event. During the day there will be an exhibition with industry-leading sponsors showcasing the latest innovations, and a conference with thought-provoking presentations from leading experts. The evening will be dedicated to the prestigious awards ceremony where winners will be announced at the event which includes a drinks reception, awards ceremony and three course dinner followed by live entertainment. 

Neil Spencer-Cook added: “There are still sponsorship opportunities for our prestigious BICSc Awards event which is always a sell-out. Tickets for the awards event will be on sale at the beginning of June, and we look forward to celebrating the industry’s leading talent at this year’s awards ceremony.”

For more information visit: https://www.bics.org.uk/awards/

THE BICSC Youth Event is designed to bridge the gap between enthusiastic young talent and industry professionals, fostering a harmonious environment for growth, learning, and mutual benefit.

The primary objective of the event is to provide young people with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse job roles available after leaving school, college, or university. Through dynamic presentations, insightful panels, and interactive exhibitions, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the skills needed to succeed in their chosen careers. This exceptional initiative is hosted in collaboration with Youth Employment UK and emphasises our commitment to being a youth-friendly, industry-friendly organisation that values our local community and the opportunities within it.

Engaging with the next generation

For sponsors, the event offers a unique chance to showcase opportunities and connect with enthusiastic young talent. This engagement not only promotes job openings and career prospects but also allows organisations to leave a lasting impact on the attendees. By effectively communicating their brand and values, sponsors and exhibitors can attract future professionals who are eager to embark on their career journey in the cleaning and FM sectors.

Sponsorship options

To facilitate this engagement, the BICSc Youth Event offers two tiers of sponsorship:

Tier 2 

• Exhibit space: Present your brand and connect with potential recruits, creating a dynamic and engaging environment
• YEUK Membership and Recruitment Package: Valued at over £3,000, this package offers unparalleled access to young talent. It includes membership with Youth Employment UK, access to a comprehensive library of early career resources, monthly webinars, three in-person events, unlimited job postings on the Opportunity Finder, logo inclusion on the BICSc Cleaning Hub page, and additional promotion through a joint PR campaign
• Comprehensive marketing: Your brand will be featured in The Standard, BICSc quarterly magazine, through editorial opportunities throughout all editions for the year. Additionally, your brand will be promoted as part of the event on our website and across our social media channels
• Logo placement: Your logo will be featured digitally and in print on the day of the event, ensuring maximum visibility
• QR code: Easy access to your digital content and resources, providing a simple way to link attendees on the day to your job opportunities or career information.

Tier 1 

All the Tier 2 options, plus:

• Exclusive panel spot: Share your insights and expertise with a captivated audience, providing a platform to influence and inspire the next generation of professionals
• Future speaking invitations: Continue to influence and inspire at upcoming BICSc events, solidifying your presence in the industry.

Conclusion

The BICSc Youth Event is more than just a career fair; it is a transformative experience designed to shape the future of young professionals and the cleaning and FM sectors. By participating as a sponsor, you are not only investing in your organisation's growth but also contributing to the development of a skilled and motivated workforce. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with the next generation of professionals and showcase the exciting possibilities that await them within the cleaning and FM sectors. 

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc.

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

For the first time, the industry-leading Institute will host its inaugural BICSc Youth Event which will take place on July 9th, 2025. The one-day event willshine a spotlight on the varied career opportunities in the cleaning sector and facilities management industry.

BICSc will be hosting this new event in collaboration with Youth Employment UK (YEUK) and together will showcase and explore exciting career options with experts from the sector, delivering dynamic presentations and participating in insightful, knowledge sharing panels. 

BICSc Group Managing Director, Neil Spencer-Cook said: “This event is designed to give young people a comprehensive understanding of the diverse job roles available after leaving school, college, or university. Those attending will leave with a clearer picture of the multiple career paths that await them, and the skills needed to succeed.

“Hosted by BICSc, in collaboration with Youth Employment UK, this event underscores our commitment to being a youth-friendly, industry-friendly organisation that values its local community and the opportunities within it. It gives delegates the ideal opportunity to shape their future and discover the numerous possibilities to achieve and succeed in the cleaning and FM sectors!”

The event, which will be held at IET, Austin Court, Birmingham, will be staged during Youth Employment Week, 7th-11th July 2025 and will guide and highlight the breadth of the cleaning industry and wider FM roles available to students after leaving school, college or university. 

Experts from BICSc and YEUK will share their own personal insights and experiences of their career successes to help inspire attendees to understand what can be achieved in both sectors. Discussions will also focus onearly/extended careers in innovation in the industry.

Neil Spencer-Cook added: “We are thrilled to be able to launch this new BICSc Youth Event which will offer a full day of presentations, panels, and exhibitions from youth-friendly companies operating within our industry. For sponsors and exhibitors, this is a unique chance to showcase their opportunities and connect with enthusiastic young talent and effectively promote their job openings and career prospects.”

“We are excited to share more information about the multitude of career opportunities available and inspire the next generation of specialists within the sector.”

BICSc is the largest independent professional and educational body within the cleaning industry. The are several sponsorship packages available and opportunities for organisations to exhibit at the exclusive event. 

For more information about tickets, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities visit https://www.bics.org.uk/bicsc-youth-event/

WAITING FOR action on somebody else's part is always the most difficult thing to plan into any business strategy, Do we need to look at how we do things, and do we need to find a different way to overcome the shortage of staff and the problems as an industry we are facing? With hundreds of thousands of vacancies surely we need to act now.

So, what can we do? I've talked here before about the use of technology whether that be sensor technology to identify what areas need cleaning on any particular day, whether that be robotics or whether that be using data that can be obtained to analyse how we can do things more efficiently. Let's not forget that technology also includes machinery that is not robotics. For example using the right size scrubber dryer for the area you were cleaning rather than mopping by hand.

Let's start with machinery and robotics. We are all aware that any form of machinery needs to be maintained and looked after, cleaned and fit for purpose, to ensure it fulfils its full life cycle. This in the past seems to have fallen to the cleaning operative, which in some instances is a great idea - but do all cleaning operatives want to maintain machinery? Indeed, are they capable? 

Depending on the size of your contract - or contracts - would looking for somebody with the skill set to maintain machinery only be a different way of looking at addressing the skills shortage in cleaning operatives? Having spoken to a number of machinery manufacturers there are a lot of telematics that can be obtained. For example, how often the machine has been used on a particular contract, how many hours it's been out of the cupboard on any particular day, are they at the point of needing a maintenance check? Do they need any parts change and do they need cleaning?

One of the things we hear from operatives particularly around the robotics side of things is that they leave puddles of water on the floor. Now let’s be honest every machine can fail at some point, but have these machines been maintained and cleaned in line with the manufacturer’s instructions? Is that why the machine is leaving puddles?

Also, who has been made responsible for the maintenance of the machines? Is it a cleaning operative who thinks that the robot may take their job in the long term?  Will they maintain it correctly? How have you introduced the machinery to your staff? Do your staff feel secure? I am sure many of you are addressing these issues, and playing to the strengths of your operational teams, but are we doing enough to make the cleaning operative feel secure in their role? In a time when we are fighting to fill roles shouldn’t that be high on the priority list? 

In terms of the quality of data that we can now get from washroom machinery, sensor technology, machinery telematics and more, who are we expecting to keep track and on top of this? Is it a supervisor who is also covering a cleaning operative role? Is it a manager who is running 15 contracts? Do they have the time and the skill set to do it?

Sometimes coming at it in a different way may help. Employing someone who is data orientated and can analyse/help make improvements and increase efficiency could be a major benefit to your business. Is there someone within your business that is this way orientated? It may be an operative and isn’t this a great way of internal promotion! I'm sure I am not the only person who thinks like this, and many of you out there are trying different ways to successfully complete your contracts. 

My point is that we can wait and wait for government action and committees to provide us with solutions - we all know that this takes time - so if we want to make a change for the better and overcome the problems thrown at us let’s look at how we have always done it and find another way that might just supply the answer to some of our problems, if not all. None of us like change for the sake of it but sometimes change can make a bigger difference than we realise if we let go and run with it. 

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc.

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk