Workpays Joins Derby’s Big Clean Initiative to Support Local Communities

Workpays staff and learners photographed alongside members of St Peters Quarter Derby

Workpays staff and learners rolled up their sleeves and joined forces with St Peters Quarter Derby for this year’s Great British Spring Clean, helping clean up key areas around the city centre on Friday 28th March 2025. The team took part in the Big Clean Initiative, focusing on scrubbing moss and grime from brick and stone walls to improve the appearance of Derby’s streets — and in doing so, brought our sustainability values to life.

This community-led event is more than just a clean-up. For Workpays, it’s a chance to show that our commitment to sustainability and community isn’t just talk. It’s part of who we are.

“We wanted to do more than just talk about sustainability—we wanted to act on it. The Great British Spring Clean felt like the perfect opportunity,” said Nicole, our Engagement Broker at Workpays.

“It’s about walking the walk. If we say we care about the communities we serve, we have to show up like this.”

Workpays learners, many from our ESOL programme, took part enthusiastically — gaining real-world confidence, communication practice, and a sense of belonging in their local community.

“For ESOL learners especially, it’s a chance to use their language skills in real-world settings and feel more connected to their new community,” said Maia, Tutor at Workpays.

“The confidence they’ve shown today is amazing. It’s helped them feel part of something purposeful.”

Learners shared their own thoughts:

“I feel happy to help clean the city. It’s my home now.”

“I learn how to talk with people, work together, and help.”

The clean-up was run in collaboration with St Peters Quarter Derby – a Business Improvement District (BID) focused on making Derby city centre cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for all.

“It’s brilliant to see Workpays stepping up and doing just that with their learners,” said Nikki Dzibij, a Ranger at St Peters Quarter.

“It shows they’re not just here for business reasons — they want to be part of the community.”

We’re incredibly proud to have played a part in this fantastic initiative. It aligns perfectly with our values as a green and sustainable training provider, dedicated to improving life chances through education and opportunity, but also going the extra mile to make a positive impact in every community we work in.