Karen Pryor, National Chair, Association of Healthcare Cleaning Professionals (AHCP), reports.
As the AHCP marks its 50th anniversary this year, I’m honoured to take up the role of National Chair at such a pivotal moment in our journey.
With over 39 years in the NHS and more than two decades in senior leadership roles within healthcare facilities management, I’ve seen first-hand the evolution of our sector and the vital role cleaning professionals play in patient safety, infection prevention, and the overall healthcare experience.
Over the past 50 years, the AHCP has championed professional standards, supported training and development, and provided a national voice for healthcare cleaning. From shaping policy to supporting frontline teams, our members have consistently demonstrated excellence, resilience, and innovation.
Under the leadership of the previous National Chair, Alison Lane, the AHCP has undergone a significant transformation. Behind the scenes, we’ve modernised our infrastructure, centralising bank accounts, upgrading IT systems, and streamlining invoicing and communications. These changes have strengthened our foundations and enabled us to better serve our members.
The recent rebrand, including a fresh logo and a new website, reflects our renewed energy and ambition. It’s more than a visual update, it signals a new chapter for the AHCP. We’re focused on increasing visibility, growing our membership, and ensuring our voice is heard nationally.
As we look to the future, our profession faces several complex and evolving challenges:
Workforce Development and Retention
Recruiting and retaining skilled cleaning professionals remains a national concern. The AHCP must continue to advocate for recognition, fair reward, and career pathways that attract and retain talent.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The healthcare sector is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Cleaning services must adapt by embracing sustainable products, reducing waste, and supporting greener practices without compromising hygiene standards.
Technological Innovation
From robotics to smart cleaning systems, technology is reshaping how we work. We need to ensure our members are equipped with the knowledge and skills to adopt and integrate these innovations effectively.
Infection Prevention and Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of cleaning in infection control. As new threats emerge, we must remain agile, evidence-led, and prepared to respond to future public health challenges.
Equity, Inclusion and Professional Recognition
We will continue to push for greater visibility and respect for our profession, ensuring that healthcare cleaning is recognised as a vital, skilled, and inclusive workforce.
I’m excited to work with our Executive Team, members, and partners to shape the future of the AHCP. Together, we will honour our past, embrace the present, and build a stronger, more inclusive future for healthcare cleaning professionals across the UK, helping them meet the challenges of the next 50 years.
https://www.ahcp.co.uk/
About the contributor
Karen Pryor
National Chair
Association of Healthcare Cleaning Professionals (AHCP)