Mental Health Awareness Month: The Power of a Clean Environment

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to recognise how our surroundings can influence how we feel, work and cope with day-to-day pressures. Clean, organised environments play a key role in supporting mental wellbeing, helping to reduce stress, improve concentration, and create a sense of calm and control. Whether in offices, communal spaces, or homes, a well- maintained environment can make people feel more comfortable, motivated, and supported throughout their day.

As a cleaning team, the work we do has a direct and meaningful impact on the wellbeing of others. By maintaining high standards, paying attention to
details, and creating welcoming spaces, we help contribute to healthier, more positive environments. Mental Health Awareness Month is also a reminder for us to look after ourselves and one another—taking breaks when needed, supporting colleagues, and recognising the value of the work we do. Every clean space we create is not just about appearance, but about supporting the people who use it every day.

⚽World Cup Excitement: Watch This Space!⚽

With the World Cup just around the corner, watch this space for some exciting ways IOC will be joining in with the celebrations. This global event brings people together from all walks of life, creating a shared sense of excitement, unity, and friendly competition. It’s a great opportunity for colleagues to connect, celebrate different cultures, and enjoy the atmosphere that football inspires around the world. We’ll be running a World Cup sweepstake for staff to get involved in, adding a bit of fun and anticipation as the tournament unfolds. Keep an eye out for more details coming soon—it’s definitely something you won’t want to miss! 

On the spot: Angelo Ortiz Salazar

1. What is your role at IOC? I work as a cleaning supervisor at IOC, helping the team and making sure everything is clean and organised during the evening.

2. What
motivates you to do your best every day? What motivates me is by doing a good job, helping my team, and seeing everything nice and clean.

3. What’s your favourite snack or treat to power through a busy day? My favourite treat is a coffee and something sweet. Usually, chocolate or biscuits.

4. What’s one thing that always makes your day better? One thing that makes my day better is when everyone is in a good mood and the team works well
together.

5. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend? My favourite way is by relaxing, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying some rest before a new week starts.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by: Pat Carroll

NEWSLETTER APRIL 2026

Spring into a Fresh Start: The Easter Clean

April and Easter are a natural time for us to reflect on the importance of spring cleaning and the difference a truly fresh space can make. This season is all about clearing away the build-up of winter and creating cleaner, healthier environments for the months ahead. Spring cleaning goes beyond surface tidying and focuses on deep-cleaning areas that are often overlooked, helping homes and workplaces feel brighter, more organised, and more welcoming. With longer days and a seasonal change in routine, Easter provides the perfect opportunity for a reset. At this time of year, we often see how a thorough clean can lift a space, improve comfort, and give people peace of mind—whether that’s
through refreshed communal areas, cleaner workspaces, or a home that feels ready to be enjoyed again. We understand that busy schedules can make it difficult to stay on top of everything, which is why spring is an ideal moment to tackle those bigger cleaning tasks and start the new season with confidence, knowing your environment is cared for, healthy, and ready for what lies ahead.

We R Blighty

IOC are proud to support We R Blighty, a UK Community Interest Company dedicated to helping members of the Armed Forces community, including both serving personnel and veterans. The organisation focuses on assisting those who may face challenges after leaving service, offering practical help such as employment support, work‑experience opportunities, guidance toward additional services, and community‑based initiatives aimed at improving wellbeing. Their work is centred on giving back to those who have sacrificed so much for the country, providing meaningful support to veterans and their families when it is needed most.

On the spot: Isai Jaramillo

1. What is your role at IOC? My role is a supervisor.

2. What do you enjoy most about working for IOC? I am able learn something new everyday.

3. What’s your go to coffee or tea order? English tea with oat milk.

4. What is your favourite hobby outside of work? My passion is football.

5. What’s you favourite way to unwind after a busy day? My favourite way to relax is being at home watching tv.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by: Sam Chaplin

NEWSLETTER MARCH 2026

Celebrating International Women’s Day: Honouring the Women in Our Workplace

International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8th March, is a meaningful opportunity to recognise the contributions and achievements of women across all roles within our workplace. In an industry that relies heavily on teamwork, dedication, and resilience, the women in our company play an essential part in keeping operations running smoothly. This day encourages us to reflect on the progress made toward equality while acknowledging the continued importance of creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

It is also a time to celebrate the diverse skills, strengths, and leadership
qualities that women bring to our teams every day. Whether working on-site, coordinating schedules, supporting clients, or managing behind-the-scenes operations, each contribution helps shape our success. By taking a moment to show appreciation, share positive stories, or simply say “thank you,” we help foster a workplace culture that uplifts and recognises the incredible women we work alongside. International Women’s Day reminds us that celebrating equality and respect shouldn’t be limited to one day—it’s something we can continue to embrace year-round.

Choice Support: Tuck by Truck Sweet Box

Here at IOC, we have proudly supported the charity Choice Support, who deliver a treat box to our head office. The staff who visit us are always a pleasure to welcome and consistently provide an excellent, friendly service. Choice Support partners with Tuck by Truck, a supported employment initiative that helps people with Autism and individuals with learning disabilities gain valuable work experience and develop new skills. Through this programme, individuals are supported in work placements and, where possible, in securing paid employment with organisations such as Choice Support.

If you would like to learn more about Choice
Support and their Tuck by Truck service, please see the link provided below.

On the spot: Johanna Moya

1. What is your role at IOC? Supervisor cleaner

2. What is your favourite hobby outside of work? I love to cook.

3. What’s your go to coffee or tea order? My go to is a latte machiato.

4. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day? I think the best way is by catching up on sleep.

5. What’s one thing that makes your day better? Spending quality time with my
family.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by: Pat Carroll

NEWSLETTER FEBRUARY 2026

Random Acts of Kindness Month

February is recognised as Random Acts of Kindness Month, making it an ideal opportunity to create a more positive and uplifting atmosphere in the workplace. Even the smallest gestures—offering help to a colleague, sharing a friendly smile or giving a sincere compliment—can brighten someone’s day and spark a ripple effect of goodwill. These acts of kindness help strengthen team relationships, boost morale, and build a stronger sense of community. Encouraging staff to take part throughout February can help embed kindness into the everyday culture of the workplace, turning simple actions into long-lasting habits that make our work environment more supportive and enjoyable for
everyone.

Valentine’s Day in the Workplace

Valentine’s Day is a great reminder of the importance of appreciation, kindness, and teamwork in our workplace. While the day is traditionally associated with romance, in a professional setting it’s an opportunity to recognise the colleagues who support us, motivate us, and help keep things running smoothly every day. A simple “thank you”, offering a hand to a teammate, or sharing a kind word can go a long way toward building a positive and connected work environment. Gestures of appreciation strengthen morale and remind us that we’re part of a team that values respect, support, and the hard work everyone contributes.

Making a Difference Together: Our Support for Keech Hospice Care

At IOC, we’re proud to stand behind Keech Hospice Care. Their compassionate work provides specialist support to children and adults with life-limiting illnesses across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Milton Keynes. Keech’s incredible team helps families make the most of every moment—offering comfort, dignity, and care during the most challenging times. We’re honoured to contribute to a charity that brings such meaningful support to local families. By supporting Keech Hospice Care, we hope to help them continue providing their vital services to those who need it most.

On the spot: Juan Londono

1. What is your role at IOC? I carry out a variety of tasks within the company, in addition to my role as a delivery driver.

2. What do you enjoy most about working for
IOC? I enjoy it most when the workday runs smoothly, everything goes to plan, and clients are satisfied. 

3. What motivates you to do your best every day? I’m motivated by improving in my role every day, as it helps me grow professionally and work towards my future goals.

4. What’s your favourite snack/drink to power through a busy day? A Coca-Cola.

5. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend? Spending time resting and recharging for the week ahead.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by: Barry Hawtin

NEWSLETTER JANUARY 2026

New Year, Cleaner Workplace: Setting the standard for 2026

As we begin a new year, January is the ideal time to refresh and reset workplace environments after the busy festive period. A clean, well-maintained workspace plays an important role in creating a positive first impression, supporting employee wellbeing, and promoting productivity. Our goal is to ensure that every space we care for reflects professionalism, hygiene, and attention to detail from the very start of 2026.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to maintaining high standards and delivering a consistent, reliable service throughout the year. By focusing on quality, proactive care, and ongoing improvement, we aim to support our clients in providing safe, welcoming workplaces for their teams and visitors alike. We look forward to continuing our partnership and setting the standard for cleanliness together in the year ahead.

British Dyslexia Association

As a company, we are proud to have taken the British Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia Friendly Workplace Pledge. This commitment reflects our dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals with dyslexia are welcomed, valued, and empowered to thrive. Over the next twelve months, we will implement practical measures, review our policies, and raise awareness across our teams to ensure out workplace embraces accessibility and diversity. By embedding dyslexia-friendly practices into our culture, we aim to enhance productivity, foster equality, and demonstrate our responsibility to both employees and the wider community.

Celebrate National Fun at Work Day!

National Fun at Work Day is a great reminder that a positive workplace culture goes beyond productivity—it’s about creating an environment where people feel engaged, connected, and valued. Taking time to enjoy light hearted activities, share laughter, and build camaraderie can boost morale, strengthen teamwork, and even spark activity. Fun at work isn’t just a nice extra; it helps reduce stress, improve communication, and make the workplace a more enjoyable space for everyone. Whether it’s a quick game, a themed coffee break, or simply sharing a smile, let’s embrace the spirit of the day and celebrate the idea that when we enjoy what we do, we do it even better!

On the spot: Pat Carroll

1. What is your role at IOC? My role is a window cleaner at IOC

2. What do you enjoy most about working for IOC? I enjoy being a window cleaner

3. What’s your go-to coffee or tea order? I go for a cappuccino

4. What is your favourite hobby outside of work? I would say socialising

5. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day? Relaxing at home

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by: Tom Gillingham

Celebrating Diversity: Holiday Traditions Around the World

December is a time of celebration, but not everyone observes the same holidays. In a diverse workplace, recognising different traditions fosters inclusion and respect. While Christmas is widely celebrated, many people also observe Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other cultural festivities. At our company, we are proud to have a diverse team, including many staff members from Spanish-speaking backgrounds. In Colombia, Christmas is marked by colourful lights, family gatherings, and traditional foods like buñuelos and natilla. These holidays share common themes of light, family, and community, reminding us that diversity enriches our workplace and strengthens our connections.

Supporting Crisis at Christmas – The Gift of Hope

This Christmas, we’re proud to support Crisis at Christmas, a charity dedicated to helping people facing homelessness during the festive season. For just £29.80, you can give someone more than a meal—you can give them hope. The donations provide a safe, warm place to stay, hot meals including a traditional Christmas dinner, and access to health and wellbeing services that many desperately need.

But the impact goes beyond Christmas Day. That gift also offers vital support to help individuals leave homelessness behind for good, including advice, training, and pathways to long-term housing. It’s a small amount that can make a
life-changing difference. Together, we can help ensure that everyone has the chance to feel save, cared for, and valued this holiday season.

On the spot: Megan Emberson

1. If your workday had a theme song, what would it be? It would be 9-5 by Dolly Parton.

2. What’s your favourite snack or treat to power through a busy day?
My go to is a Werther’s.

3. What’s one thing you’ve learned on the job that has surprised you? How many COSHH & RAMS are needed! 

4. What’s one thing that always makes your day better? Talking to my colleagues.

5. What’s your favourite
way to spend a weekend? It is spending the weekend with my family.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by Barry Hawtin

NEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2025

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities, businesses, and individuals come together to raise awareness, show support, and fundraise for life-saving research and care. At IOC, we believe that supporting this cause goes beyond wearing pink, it’s about making a real difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. By fostering awareness and supporting those affected in our community, we hope to make a positive impact, reminding everyone that a caring, informed environment is just as important as a clean one.

We encourage our clients and community to join us in spreading awareness, whether it’s by sharing educational resources, participating in fundraising events, or simply checking in on loved ones. By keeping the conversation going and encouraging regular screenings, we hope to make a positive difference.

Caring for Spaces, Caring for Minds

October 10th marked World Mental Health Day, a reminder that mental well-being is just as important as physical health. At IOC, we believe that a clean and organised environments plays a big role in supporting mental clarity and emotional balance. Whether it’s a tidy workspace or a freshly cleaned home, a clean space can reduce stress, improve focus, and create a sense of calm. Mental health matters every day, not just once a year. That’s why we’re encouraging our team and clients to take small steps that make a big difference, like taking breaks, staying hydrated, and creating peaceful, clutter-free zones at home or work.

Wapping Community Garden Project

This vibrant green space has become a hub for local residents to connect and enjoy nature. What makes this project even more meaningful is that several of our dedicated cleaners volunteered their time and energy to help bring the garden to life. Cleaning overgrown areas, their hard work and community spirit made a real difference. We believe that caring for the spaces we live and work in goes beyond cleaning, it’s about nurturing environments where people can thrive. The Wapping Community Garden is a perfect example of how small acts of service can blossom, we’re proud of the team for stepping up and giving back.

On the spot: Claudia Mendes – Client Services Manager

1. If your workday had a theme song, what would it be? ‘Work it’ by Missy Elliot because every workday needs a bit of rhythm.

2. What’s your
favourite snack or treat to power through a busy day? It is always chocolate. It’s my official fuel.

3. What’s one thing you’ve learned on the job that has surprised you? That a sense of humour is almost as essential as coffee throughout the day.

4. What’s one thing that always makes your day better? A genuine smile or a kind conversation, little moments like that make everything better.

5. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend? With music, food and friends… and absolutely no alarms.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by Ryan Boxcer

Zero Waste Week

From 1st to 7th September, the UK observes Zero Waste Week, a powerful reminder of how small changes in our daily routines can lead to a big impact on the environment. At IOC, we’re proud to support this initiative by embedding zero-waste principles into our cleaning services. We actively reduce single-use plastics, opt for refillable and biodegradable cleaning products, and ensure that all waste is disposed of responsibly. Our team is trained to work efficiently and sustainably, using reusable cloths, concentrated solutions, and smart scheduling to minimise travel emissions. These practices not only help protect the planet but also ensure our clients receive high-quality conscientious
service.

We also believe that sustainability is a shared effort, and we encourage our clients to join us in making cleaner, greener choices. Whether it’s setting up recycling stations, switching to eco-friendly supplies, or simply being mindful of what goes down the drain, every action counts. Zero Waste Week is more than just a campaign, it’s a chance to rethink how we clean, consume, and care for our spaces. By working together, we can create environments that are not only spotless but also sustainable for future generations.

Variety, the Children’s Charity

At IOC, we believe that a clean and healthy environment is just one part of building a better future and that future belongs to our children. That is why we are incredibly proud to support Variety, the Children’s Charity, an organisation that has been transforming young lives across the UK for 75 years.  Their tireless work provides vital support to children and young people who are sick, disabled, or disadvantaged, offering everything from specialist equipment and accessible transport to unforgettable experiences that bring joy and confidence. We are deeply committed to giving back to the community we serve, and partnering with this charity allows us to extend that care into the lives of
families who need it most. Together, we can help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances.

On the spot: Ryan Boxcer

1. If you could describe your job in three words, what would they be? Motivating, engaging and dynamic.

2. What’s one thing that makes your team great to work
with? Everyone cares about the job they are doing, and being an organised team helps to ensure we achieve great results.

3. What motivates you to do your best every day? The thing that motivates me the most is the progression within the job.

4. What’s your go-to coffee or tea order when working? It is always a flat white.

5. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day? The way I unwind is usually by exercising.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by Ryan Boxcer

Colombian Independence Day

Every year on July 20th, Colombians around the world come together to celebrate their nation’s independence – a historic day that marks the beginning of Colombia’s fight for freedom from Spanish rule in 1810. This day is not only a symbol of national pride but also a celebration of Colombia’s rich culture, vibrant traditions, and enduring spirit. From colourful parades and traditional music to delicious food and family gatherings, Colombian Independence Day is a joyful reminder of the country’s resilience and unity. It is a time to honour the past while celebrating the strength and identity of the Colombian people today.

At our company, we are proud to have a diverse and hardworking team, including many staff members from Spanish-speaking backgrounds. Colombian Independence Day gives us a special opportunity to recognise and celebrate the cultural heritage that enriches our workplace. We value the dedication, warmth, and positive energy that our Colombian colleagues bring to the team every day. As we mark this important day, we want to say thank you – and ¡Feliz Día de la Independencia, Colombia!

The Peaches Womb Cancer Trust

We are proud to share that our team recently made a heartfelt contribution to the Peaches Womb Cancer Trust, a remarkable charity dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and supporting those affected by womb cancer. This donation reflects our ongoing commitment to giving back to the community and supporting causes that make a real difference in people’s lives. We are honoured to stand with Peaches in their mission to improve outcomes and provide hope for women across the UK.

Peaches Womb Cancer
Trust was founded in 2020 by a team of enthusiastic and dedicated researchers, doctors and nurses working alongside Professor Emma Crosbie. Since then, the original founders have been joined by invaluable volunteers and 2 staff members to ensure we can raise awareness, support patients, fund and promote womb cancer research.

If you would like to find out more about the charity please do not hesitate to follow the link below.

On the spot: Leon Neal

1.   What is your role at IOC? Window Cleaning Manager

2.   What is your favourite hobby outside of work? I love to travel and go on holiday.

3.   What do you enjoy most about working for IOC? Having input in updating the window cleaning department.

4.   What is the toughest challenge you have faced within your role? Implementing  the changes I want to make within
the window cleaning team.

5.   When you are at work, how do you motivate yourself? Through my hard working attitude and a will to succeed. 

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by Pat Carroll

Pride in the Workplace: Supporting LGBTQ+ Inclusion

As we celebrate Pride Month, we take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to building a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Pride is more than a celebration, it is a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility, equity, and allyship. At IOC, we honour the contributions of our LGBTQ+ colleagues and recognise the ongoing journey toward inclusion and equality. We understand that fostering a truly inclusive environment requires more than statements, it demands action, listening, and continuous learning. By embracing diverse identities and experiences, we not only enrich our culture but also drive innovation, collaboration, and
long-term success.

This Pride Month, we invite all employees to reflect on the importance of inclusion and consider the role each of us plays in fostering a respectful and supportive workplace. Acts of allyship, whether through listening, learning, or simply showing kindness, can have a meaningful impact. We encourage everyone to take time to explore the stories, challenges, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community, and to think about how we can each contribute to a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered. Inclusion is not a one-time effort, but a continuous commitment to understanding, empathy, and action. By embracing diverse perspectives and standing up for one another, we help create a
workplace where authenticity is celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s continue to lead with compassion, champion equity, and ensure that our values are reflected in everything we do, this month and every month.

We’re Now ISO 45001 Certified: A Milestone in Workplace Safety

We’re proud to share that IOC Limited is now ISO 45001 accredited, a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to health, safety, and well-being in the workplace. ISO 45001 is the internationally recognised standard for occupational health and safety management systems, and achieving this accreditation reflects the strength of our processes, the dedication of our teams, and our proactive approach to creating a safe and supportive environment for all employees. This accomplishment not only reinforces our compliance with global best practices but also demonstrates our continuous drive for improvement and excellence in everything we do.

Team Building Day on the Thames!

On a slight rainy day, the perfect weather for this activity our team swapped desks for decks and embarked on an exhilarating speedboat adventure down the River Thames. With the wind in our hair and the iconic London skyline as our backdrop, we powered past landmarks like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and the shard. The thrill of the ride brought out plenty of laughter and cheers, creating unforgettable memories and strengthening the bonds between
colleagues in a truly unique setting. Beyond the adrenaline rush, the day was a fantastic opportunity to connect outside the usual work environment. It was a reminder that great teamwork isn’t just about collaboration in the office, but also about shared experiences that bring everyone closer together. Events like these energise our culture and remind us why we’re such a strong team.

On the spot: Barry Hawtin

1.   What is your role at IOC? My role is a professional window cleaning specialist.

2.   What is your favourite hobby outside of work?
I like to play guitar but I don’t play it as much any more.

3.   What do you enjoy most about working for IOC? I enjoy comradeship and passing on my knowledge to other people.

4.   What is the toughest challenge you have faced within your role? Everyday is different so this can be a challenge within itself but I enjoy that is is not predictable as it keeps me going.

5.   When you are at work, how do you motivate yourself? I motivate myself by always doing the best I can in the time I have. I also get a great deal of satisfaction from completing a task to perfection.

Photo of the Month

Photograph taken by Victor Marin