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As we move into 2022, recent research has identified key trends that are set to shape the cleaning practices used by businesses. These trends include reducing plastic waste, embracing green cleaning, and prioritising increased visibility and frequency of cleaning. In this blog post, we will delve into these trends, their impact on sustainability, and the importance of efficiency in cleaning processes. Let's explore what lies ahead! Embracing Green Cleaning: Research reveals that businesses are placing great importance on improving sustainability through green cleaning practices. Key areas of focus include reducing plastic waste, using products made from recycled materials, and incorporating more reusable products into cleaning regimes. These measures not only contribute to environmental preservation but also demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. The Influence of Supply Chain Disruption: Supply chain disruptions had a significant impact on businesses in 2021, surpassing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, businesses sought alternative solutions, including increasing stock holdings and exploring locally manufactured products to mitigate delays caused by Brexit and supply chain challenges. This shift led to a preference for reusable and sustainably manufactured products, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Overcoming Challenges in Sustainability: While businesses recognise the importance of sustainability, challenges such as product cost and availability hinder progress. Cost considerations remain a significant barrier, with many businesses perceiving sustainable products to be more expensive. However, it is crucial to evaluate the long-term value and benefits of sustainable cleaning products, including improved staff well-being and reduced environmental impact. Prioritising Staff Well-being and Efficiency: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of robust infection control measures and the need for increased visibility and frequency of cleaning. Businesses are now prioritizing the presence of janitorial staff and seeking products that enhance efficiency without compromising results. Solutions like microfiber mop systems that save time, prevent cross-contamination, and reduce water waste are gaining traction. The Future of Cleaning - Innovation and Adaptation: As public perceptions of cleaning shift, businesses that embrace innovation and sustainability will thrive. The ongoing focus on visibility and hygiene requires businesses to continually seek ways to improve efficiency and deliver superior cleaning results. Striking the right balance between sustainability, efficiency, and infection control will be crucial for success in the evolving cleaning landscape. The trends shaping cleaning practices in 2022 highlight the growing importance of sustainability, efficiency, and infection control. Businesses must prioritize green cleaning practices, overcome challenges related to cost and availability, and invest in solutions that improve staff well-being and enhance efficiency. By adapting to these trends and embracing innovation, businesses can achieve superior cleaning results, boost hygiene standards, and position themselves at the forefront of the evolving cleaning industry. #CleaningTrends2022 #SustainableCleaning #EfficiencyInCleaning #InfectionControl

Having a robust supply chain is an essential element of modern business. Verifying that potential suppliers hold essential accredited certification (such as ISO 9001 for quality management or ISO 14001 for environmental management) is a key part of building a reliable network. Many organisations in both the public and private sectors specify that prospective suppliers must hold UKAS accredited certification. Independently checking the authenticity of each applicant’s certification is an integral part of procurement best practice, but can be a time-consuming and fragmented activity. To help streamline the process, the United Kingdom Accreditation Service is launching UKAS CertCheck; a free online service for independently verifying UKAS accredited management system certifications. What is the new database? UKAS CertCheck is a database of over 300,000 management systems certifications issued worldwide by UKAS accredited certification bodies. These certifications cover a vast array of widely recognised and commonly used management systems; ranging from the long-established Quality (ISO 9001), Environmental (ISO 14001) and Occupational Health and Safety (ISO 45001) standards; to newer Information Security (ISO 27001), Energy management (ISO 50001) and Supply Chain Security (ISO 28000) standards; to more sector-specific standards such as Food Safety (ISO 22000), Medical Devices (ISO 13485) and Road Traffic Safety (ISO 39001). Jeff Ruddle, Strategic Development Director at UKAS said: “The launch of UKAS CertCheck forms part of a wider drive for UKAS to improve its online services for stakeholders, customers and those who rely on accredited services. Providing a quick and easy way to verify the authenticity and validity of accredited certifications, UKAS CertCheck enhances both the procurement and supply chain management processes. It offers those holding accredited certification a more convenient way to prove their credentials to a potentially wider marketplace, whilst simultaneously providing third party assurance to those specifying accredited certification from their suppliers. In addition to speeding up the tendering process, this reduces the opportunity for fraud, helping businesses work together with greater confidence.” Original news article can be found on the UKAS website here.

YES, THAT'S RIGHT! TEAM WORKPLACE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THE MAY 50K THIS YEAR TO HELP SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH MS. MS affects a couple of our colleagues (both of whom took part in this challenge) so this is a very personal challenge for WORKPLACE. The May 50k is about hope, that together we can raise funds to accelerate research into multiple sclerosis and change the lives of people living with MS today. There are over 2.8 million people around the world living with MS and in every country, life is different. The MS International Federation is the global body for national MS organisations. Together they have committed to increase funding for vital MS research worldwide, and improve access to effective treatment for everyone – no matter where they live. The May 50K is one of the most important ways we can help achieve those goals, so the only thing we leave behind us is our limits. LET’S LEAVE MS BEHIND Many incredible based researchers are already funded by The May 50K members. Not only will taking part in The May 50K help continue that work, it will also fund incredible international research collaborations like The Global Patient Reported Outcomes in MS (PROMS), an initiative which aims to develop a global, unified view on PROs to enhance their use and impact in MS research and healthcare. This will also fund national research in the UK whilst funding grants to young researchers around the world. ESSENTIAL MEDICINES The World Health Organization (WHO) has a List of Essential Medicines that many countries use as a reference when deciding which treatments they should fund nationally. There has never been a single MS treatment on that list to date. For people living in low to middle-income countries particularly, this makes it very difficult to get treatment, or even to campaign for treatment. MSIF is working with world-renowned experts to try and change this. ADVOCACY There is no country in the world where access to effective MS treatment is perfect, but in many low to middle income countries people often have little to no treatment at-all. Taking part in The May 50K will help people in Morocco, Uruguay, India and other countries around the world, and help change the world for people who otherwise may never get treatment. A REVIEW OF EXISTING MEDICINES The May 50k will fund the creation of a new system for review of treatments used in other conditions that can be used safely and effectively for MS, so people with no access to approved treatment will finally have options they can trust. There is a lack of clinical trials that compare all the different MS medications with each other. One way to compare the different safety and efficacy profiles on the disease-modifying therapies is to review all existing evidence systematically and to use a ‘network meta-analysis’ to compare them. We just wanted to take the time to thank everyone who has taken part or supporting those that did – you’re awesome! There’s still time to show your support by sponsoring us, just follow the link: https://www.themay50k.com/fundraisers/workplace

Traditional business cards are always useful, however studies have proved that 91% of paper cards are thrown away and the use of paper cards as an initial method for exchanging details has dropped from 41% pre-COVID to just 16% post-pandemic. A digital alternative offering a personalised and contactless option is a much better option. Enhance Facilities Services (a WORKPLACE Company) have opted to use V1CE e-business cards and the response has been incredibly positive. When tapped against a smartphone, the electronic business card can share as much information as the user wishes, designs can be customised and branding is unique. The card uses Near Field Communication contact-less communication technology, designed to exchange data between two devices through a simple touch gesture. The importance of its positive environmental impact is a big consideration. Every year, over 100 billion business cards are created worldwide (approximately 6 million trees), however the electronic card would end this. Enhance are using the sustainable bamboo cards, only one card is needed per person and once set up, there are no reprinting costs. If contact details ever need to change or extra files need to be added, changes can be quickly made from an iPhone, tablet, android or computer. “It’s a zero waste solution. We have chosen the Eco-Friendly, bamboo card because they minimise our impact on the environment. For every bamboo card purchased, V1CE commits to plant a tree around the world. Clients are impressed when I use my e-card to share details, it’s become a real talking point!”. Sandy Aird, Director Enhance Facilities Services (part of the WORKPLACE Group) Of course, these cards are not just for businesses, students could upload their CVs and social media profiles to the card or candidates can add videos and pdfs to discuss in their job interviews. Because there are no major restrictions in terms of the amount of information the user wants to upload the cards are incredibly useful, sustainable and cost-effective. First published by Enhance Facilities Services 7th June 2022

WORKPLACE head office has just taken part in The Big Plastic Count, the UK’s biggest investigation into plastic waste. Here’s what we found really happens to our plastic waste: ♻️18% is recycled 🌍 26% is sent abroad 🔥 36% is burnt ⛰️20% is sent to landfill In one week we used 4 pieces of plastic. Over the year that's the equivalent to 208 pieces. 100% of our plastic waste was from food & drink packaging. Most plastic packaging is single-use – designed to be used once and then thrown away. For a lot of people plastic packaging from food & drink will be highest. If supermarkets reduced the amount of fruit and vegetable wrapping, it would significantly cut plastic waste. 75% of our plastic was hard plastic. Hard plastic is a lot easier to recycle than soft plastic. Whilst hard plastic is more recyclable, there are many items that cannot be recycled such as black plastic, polystyrene chips and toothpaste tubes. 25% of our plastic was soft plastic. Less than 1 in 10 local councils in the UK collect soft plastic, like plastic bags and wrappers. Do you know if yours collects it? So what happens to our plastic packaging waste? 18% is recycled in the UK - Plastic waste that is sorted and reprocessed in the UK then turned into new materials. 26% is exported - The UK sends tonnes of rubbish to other countries every day - often to countries in the Global South. Investigations have shown much of it ends up being dumped or burned. 20% is landfilled - When plastic is buried in the ground at a landfill, it releases harmful gases into the atmosphere, while wind and rain carry microplastics into surrounding areas. 36% is incinerated - Burning or incinerating plastic releases carbon, toxins and pollutants into the air, presenting numerous health risks for local communities and contributing to climate change. It’s pretty fascinating to learn about our own plastic footprint, but it’s important to remember that the point of The Big Plastic Count is not about individual action. Currently, too much single plastic is being produced without reusable alternatives that suit everyone's needs. We need governments, supermarkets and companies to take action to reduce the amount of plastic that’s being produced in the first place. The team over at the Big Plastic Count are going to spend the next few weeks crunching all the data that’s coming in - will be back in touch in mid July, to let our know the overall national picture of what's happening to our plastic, and a plan of action for how together we can push for ambitious change. In the meantime, if you want more information on how we as individuals can reduce our own plastic use, they've teamed up with City to Sea to create a handbook with tips on how you can reduce, reuse and refill!

This year the theme is Loneliness which affects millions of people across the UK. Monday 9 May 2022: Today marks the launch of Mental Health Awareness Week, the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health. The week, which is hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, is in its 22nd year and runs from 9-15 May. This year, the theme for the week is ‘Loneliness’. Across the country, people will be reflecting on loneliness and how it impacts our mental health. Long-term loneliness is closely linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. WORKPLACE has trained several of its key staff as Mental Health First Aiders who can support our workforce, as well as each other. Mark Rowland Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said: “We hope this year’s theme of loneliness will strike a chord with many of us who felt lonely and struggled throughout the Covid pandemic. “Millions of us experience loneliness from time to time. We know that some people are at higher risk of experiencing loneliness and the evidence shows the longer we feel lonely, the more we are at risk of mental health problems. “Loneliness deserves more attention and we’re calling on everyone who has struggled as a result of being lonely to share their experiences. We must work together - as individuals, as a society and through government policy - to reduce loneliness and prevent mental health problems by investing in welcoming, social spaces and new community initiatives.” Some of the ways people can participate in Mental Health Awareness Week: During Mental Health Awareness Week use the hashtag #IveBeenThere to share experiences of loneliness to support others and give the campaign momentum. Sign up to walk, run or job as part of our 80 Miles in May challenge and share your photos using #80MilesinMay and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or join the conversation on social media using #IveBeenThere and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

Intelligent Workplace Solutions Ltd (Workplace) is delighted to announce the acquisition of Enhance Office Cleaning Ltd (EOC) an expert in providing commercial cleaning services from its Head Office in Bromley. Stephen Guthrie, Workplace’s CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome EOC to the group which enhances Workplace’s strong presence in the commercial cleaning market. “EOC brings with it a wide range of clients, mainly in Central London including prestigious financial and legal firms based in the city. Their similar ethos and company vision make them the perfect fit to join the Workplace group. “This is a highly complementary and attractive acquisition. The transaction also reflects our determination to grow further our revenues from building support services. “EOC’s current Director, Sandy Aird will remain in the business to grow and expand its operations, which will be integrated into Workplace’s commercial cleaning service division.” Workplace wishes EOC a very warm welcome into the group and looks forward to working with the team. Please click here to visit EOC’s website: www.enhancefs.com

We are living in unprecedented times with inflation at a 40-year high and spiralling energy and food bills. The worst income squeeze on record lies before us and no one will feel it more sharply than the nearly 5m people in low paid and insecure jobs, already struggling to meet their everyday needs. In these difficult times, our commitment to the real Living Wage is more important than ever. Today, the government’s ‘National Living Wage’ rises to £9.50 per hour for over 23s bringing a necessary pay boost for hundreds of thousands of low paid workers. Yet it is important to underline that the real Living Wage remains the only rate calculated annually based on what it costs to live in the UK and London. Someone who earns the real Living Wage will earn around £800 more per year in the UK and over £3,000 a year in London compared to the minimum wage. The real Living Wage calculation not only accounts for food, bills, rent, but also those extras needed for a decent life and to fully participate in society, for example a school uniform or postage to send a birthday card. The methodology draws on the Minimum Income Standard’s basket of goods to identify these everyday living costs, factoring in different household types and taxes and benefits. The new rates will be calculated in the autumn and will take into account rising costs. Calculating the rates annually ensures that the rates don’t fluctuate with short term spikes in price rises and are practical to implement. The process is overseen by the independent Living Wage Commission comprising Living Wage Employers, civil society representatives and labour market experts who ensure that the rates are fully representative of life in the UK today, are based on the best available data and are an attainable benchmark. The real Living Wage is a baseline for what’s needed to live a decent and dignified life. Content kindly supplied by Kaherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation

We believe in celebrating and recognising best practice and the achievements of our team throughout the whole workforce giving us the chance to say thank you. Each month we celebrate an employee and/or team who have been nominated by clients, managers or colleagues at WORKPLACE for the work they have done that has been over and above the norm. We really love it when our customers take the time to nominate a member of staff who has gone the extra mile for them. This month we are acknowledging the hard work and dedication of Manuella Majorite Hunt. Majorite (as she's known) has been a team player at WORKPLACE for more than 20 years! Marjorite’s nominator; COO Martin Wells praised her work ethic and attitude saying, “I am excited to nominate Majorite Hunt for the WORKPLACE Employee Excellence Award. Her hard work and positive attitude have never gone unnoticed by the clients and she is always willing to go the extra mile, thank you Marjorite – congratulations on a well-earned award”.

Office plants can assist in boosting staff well-being by up to 47 percent according to workplace research carried out at Chelsea Flower Show. Visitors to the Chelsea Flower Show were challenged to take part in the study which measured their creativity, happiness and productivity as they experienced a range of different workspace designs. The study, designed by the Identity Realisation research group at the University of Exeter, compared people's effective output across different types of business space. Ninety experiments took place across the week and involved a total of 350 participants. The results showed that allowing staff to make design decisions in a workspace enhanced with office plants can increase well-being by 47%, increase creativity by 45% and increase productivity by 38%. The findings, which would be expected to translate to a significant increase in business profitability, confront the popular belief that plants and art are an unnecessary or even wasteful element of the business environment. Results from this and related scientific investigations stubbornly indicate that across all measures of psychological comfort and business performance, the managerially popular flexible, controlled, lean office, is consistently inferior to a space enriched by the design decisions of people who work there. Psychologist Dr Craig Knight from the University of Exeter said: "We have previously shown that designing your own workspace improves health, happiness and productivity. It was time to go a step further and see whether the principle can also be applied to creativity and indeed whether the very act of designing the workspace can be used effectively. Results at the show demonstrated how creativity can be increased by 45% through improving the psychological well-being and design of a working environment. "The results from the Chelsea Flower Show experiment indicate that plants, in a well-designed and personalised office environment can boost business effectiveness through improved staff productivity and creativity. This gives company managers a real incentive to share control of office space with their staff and create meaningful, les didactic and more grown-up space." The Chelsea experiment allowed the public to experience one of four typical office designs. Visitors were invited to undertake tasks to measure their productivity, wellbeing and creativity. The measures were collated for each office design and differences between the designs were assessed as part of the results data. The experiment builds on Knight's research with colleagues from the University of Exeter's Psychology Department. Previous work has revealed the potential for remarkable improvements in job satisfaction and performance by allowing workers to personalise their office space. The research showed that employees who have control over the layout of their workspace are not only happier and healthier but are also more productive to the tune of 38% when compared to a lean space.

humanutopia is a social enterprise company which continually creates and runs inspirational and life-changing courses in schools for students and staff. Since 2004 their range of courses have been successfully delivered in over 200 UK schools to over 200,000 young people and over 20,000 adults. Their nationally acclaimed volunteer programme – ‘The Heroes Journey’ has enlisted over 15,000 volunteer heroes who have all committed to making a difference in their communities by becoming positive role models for younger students. The aim of all of their courses is to inspire change in people and communities by helping people improve their own life-chances and by challenging them to make a positive contribution to their school and community. The Heroes Foundation is HU’s charitable arm and offers the opportunity for HU graduates (Heroes) to undergo further development and become mentors within their own schools and communities, in turn helping others to fulfil their potential in education, employment and life. The Heroes Foundation has a growing number of Heroes who are volunteering in schools to develop their own skills and offer support to peers and communities. The Heroes Foundation recognises the skills and commitment our Heroes show and will develop a network and highly effective jobs board for a growing pipeline of talented heroes across the UK that will support their continual personal growth, social mobility and access to higher levels of employability. We are proud to support them again in 2022. to find out how you can help please visit www.heroesfoundation.org.uk I have personally loved the heroes experience. I remember when I first met humanutopia - I was struggling with my mental health, but being a lead hero allowed me to feel like I was capable of doing so much more than I ever thought I could. Without the heroes foundation, so many people would be struggling. We all learned to value working as a team, which sets us apart when applying for many roles. Being a part of the heroes journey has given me my confidence and smile back. Young people deserve a chance to show what we can do, but often we don't get given it. The heroes foundation gives us the chance we need to strive and thrive, being the best we can be. Hayley, hero

THE DEDICATION of so many of our colleagues has been widely praised by our clients especially during the pandemic, which is why we believe in celebrating and recognising best practice and the achievements of our team. By issuing Employee Excellence Awards we can say thank you to those who have gone the extra mile. This month we are acknowledging the hard work and dedication of Tracey Boatemaa. Tracey's nominator; Rebecca Taynton, NTT Security wanted to acknowledge her dedication and support by saying; “Tracey is an exceptional member of your team, she is always on time, never stops cleaning, always reports anything that doesn’t seem to be working or is out of place and I only ever get good feedback regarding her...Tracey is truly an asset to WORKPLACE." COO, Martin Wells goes on to say "Tracey really does go above and beyond to support her clients. She has shown immense dedication, taking on anything that was requested of her. Tracey is definitely an asset to our team and really deserves to be recognised and rewarded for her dedication." We really love it when our clients take the time to nominate a member of staff who has gone the extra mile for them. Please feel free to let us know by emailing helpme@workplace.co.uk #Awards #EmployeeExcellenceAward