Upbeat Clean Recognised by HRH the King: King’s Award
We are thrilled to announce that Upbeat Clean has received the King’s Award for Enterprise—the UK’s most prestigious business accolade—in recognition of our achievements in promoting opportunity through social mobility. We are proud to be the first cleaning company to receive this honour.
Upbeat Clean is a commercial cleaning social enterprise with a mission to transform lives through cleaning. Michael Gladwell, Managing Director and founder, shared:
“We are honoured to receive this royal recognition. It is our privilege to partner with some incredible organisations across Derby to create life-changing employment opportunities and help people step into their full potential.”
This year, we will employ over 60 individuals, the majority of whom come from refugee backgrounds or are survivors of modern slavery. Through meaningful employment, we aim to provide stability, dignity, and a sense of belonging. We're grateful to work with some of Derby’s most respected organisations, including Getinge, Vaillant, Derby County Community Trust, Althaus, and Derby Museums.
Upbeat Clean was launched in 2021 to address the barriers refugees—especially refugee women—face in securing fair and flexible work. Many had been trapped in low-wage, unstable roles with little support or dignity. We wanted to create something different: a living wage employer that offers mentoring, flexibility, and genuine opportunity.
Last year, we employed 39 cleaners, 30 of whom were from refugee backgrounds. Every person who joins our team is offered more than a job—we provide a pathway to confidence, independence, and community.
One of our team members, Crystal, shared her story:
“When I first arrived in Derby, I felt alone. I couldn’t speak English, I didn’t understand how to buy anything. People laughed at me in shops. But Upbeat helped me from the beginning—with English classes, baby clothes, and friendship. When I found out I could work at Upbeat Clean, it felt like coming full circle.
Now, I can support my family. Every time I get paid, I can do something for my kids. Upbeat Clean feels like family.”
Since our founding, 63 individuals have been employed by Upbeat Clean. Each story is different, but the outcome is the same: lives changed through meaningful work.
We believe every refugee has unique skills to offer—and with the right opportunity, they and their families can thrive. We’re proud to work alongside 40 businesses in Derby to help make that possible.
Michael added:
“We’re committed to excellence—not just in the lives we impact, but in the cleaning services we deliver. Our cleaners take great pride in their work and consistently uphold the highest standards. We want to be known not only as a compassionate employer, but as an exceptional service provider.”
Upbeat Clean: transforming lives through cleaning—one opportunity at a time.