Just Helpers: A Cleaning Company with a Clean Conscience

Following ten years of campaigning against modern slavery, I founded Just Helpers. I saw first-hand the exploitation migrant workers experienced. I wanted to offer an alternative – a cleaning business which paid fairly, offered decent working conditions and developed potential in its people.

The intersection of business and ethics has long been a subject of contemplation and debate. Sceptics argue that the pursuit of profit is inherently at odds with ethical principles, giving rise to the notion that, “Good business is an oxymoron.” However, a careful examination of the Bible, such as Proverbs 11:1 (“A false balance is abomination to the LORD, but a just weight is his delight”), reveals a foundation for ethical business practices that align with principles of honesty, fairness, and compassion.

A Clean Conscience?

A 2020 report from Clean for Good, estimated that in 2020, 60% of workers in the cleaning sector earned less than the living wage. The Low Pay Commission estimates that 1 in 5 cleaners in the UK who were entitled to the minimum wage were being paid less. Remember – the minimum wage is a poverty wage. Someone working full time and being paid the minimum wage lives in poverty. The report urges businesses who outsource cleaning to ensure that their cleaning provider shares their values: “Too many employers don’t just outsource a service, they unwittingly outsource their values and responsibilities too.”

We share the vision expressed in the Clean For Good report, and here’s why.

We have witnessed the life-changing impact of a fair wage: colleagues being able to afford fruit, vegetables, and leaner cuts of meat compared to an item from a “Happy Meal” selection; staff being able to afford to return home after several years and be reunited with children they have been supporting from afar; constant amazement from the team that they are paid the full amount, on time, every time. Experiencing an increase of trust and appreciation as our colleagues are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. In the last 11 years, we have been able to offer six of our cleaning team administrative and management roles and the training they need to flourish.

Price – The Real Cost of Cleaning

The challenge to pay our Helpers a decent wage, while remaining competitive in a crowded cleaning market, is tough. However, businesses that prioritise the well-being of their employees and customers are in harmony with biblical principles. James 5:4 reminds us: “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.” This verse underscores the importance of fair wages and treatment for workers, emphasising that God notes how employees are treated. It’s important to remember that the real cost of domestic cleaning is not only a cleaner’s wage, it is also about the cost to their health and well-being. As a Christian first and foremost, I believe we have a mandate to honour others, be good stewards of our resources, and protect the planet. A challenging juggle, but not an optional extra.

Sharing the Challenge

My passion is for people, tackling injustice, and doing the right thing. My mantra is, if you are not paying, somebody, somewhere, is. I am proud of what Just Helpers has achieved. But if we are to see meaningful change in the cleaning industry, we need to address the real cost of cleaning. We need to tackle fundamental issues around taxation and employment law, and help people understand the real cost of cleaning, nationally. We can’t do that alone.

Antoinette Daniel is the CEO of Just Helpers.