Upbeat lands cleaning contract with QUAD

A not-for-profit commercial cleaning business started by refugee charity Upbeat Communities is celebrating after landing a contract with QUAD.

Upbeat Clean, a social enterprise that provides employment opportunities for refugees in Derby, has been awarded a permanent contract to clean the Market Place venue.

Upbeat Communities is a charity that exists to help refugees settle and rebuild their lives.

It runs Derby Language School and Upbeat Clean, the latter of which supports female refugees by finding them employment cleaning commercial spaces, offering opportunities that would not normally be available.

The contract to clean QUAD will begin in the spring.

Michael Gladwell, head of enterprise at Upbeat Communities, said: “We are really excited to start working with QUAD as they are a brilliant arts venue and share our values for ethical employment.”

In a statement, QUAD said: “Upbeat Clean is a fantastic, ethical social enterprise and an innovative approach to contract cleaning, supporting the important work that Upbeat Communities do in providing welcome and support for refugees.

“Wherever possible, QUAD – as a Derby-based charity – seeks to spend budget where it will make the most difference to the local economy and working alongside Upbeat Clean is a great example of how a change in budget spend can really make a big difference.

“We can’t wait to welcome Michael and the team to QUAD, and we hope that Upbeat Clean continues to grow and develop.”