The references in Sue Gray’s report into the so-called ‘partygate scandal’ revealed a number
of examples of “unacceptable” treatment of cleaners and security staff during the alleged
parties in Downing Street.
Cleaners were declared as Key Workers during the pandemic and were on the frontline every
day. The Cleaners Union is appalled that, away from the camera, their vital role in keeping
Number 10 clean and infection-free was forgotten.
Founder of the Union, Dr Paul Chiy, said today, “Cleaners are underpaid, overworked, and
looked down upon, on a regular basis. In the report it was clear that cleaners were left to
(literally) clean up the mess in Downing Street and, rather than being thanked, were treated
rudely and without respect. We feel this is unacceptable and wholeheartedly condemn this
behaviour, especially coming from the heart of government.
“We are not, however, surprised that cleaners felt unable to raise their concerns over the
alleged breaches in lockdown rules or cases of poor treatment. A drastic cultural shift is
needed in the way cleaners are recognised and valued for what they do. Introducing what the
report describes as, “accessible means by which to raise concerns electronically, in person or
online, including directly with the Permanent Secretary in No 10” will not, in our opinion,
address the fundamental issues with the way cleaners are viewed. Nor will it give them the
confidence to speak up without fear and in the certainty that they will be listened to.”
The Cleaners Union is calling on the Government to engage with the Cleaners Union and other
trades unions to support this cultural shift.
25 May 2022
Notes for the Editor
1. The Cleaners Union is a not-for-profit Union representing cleaners throughout the UK.
We are an organisation that stands up for the rights of cleaners and helps provide
them with a voice to speak out against the exploitation and abuse taking place within
the workplace. You can learn more at https://cleanersunion.org/
2. For further information please contact Dr Paul Chiy on 0208 242 4308 or email on
admin@cleanersunion.org