Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners launches bursary to open doors for young people in the cleaning industry

A new annual bursary worth £5,000 is now open to those whose parents or guardians work in the UK cleaning industry

A long-term commitment to social mobility

The Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners (WCEC) has launched an exciting new bursary programme, offering meaningful financial support to young people whose parents or guardians work in the cleaning industry. The initiative is part of a wider social mobility strategy introduced by the WCEC’s new Master, Kevin Meighan, at his installation in March 2026.  Furthermore, it aligns with the Lord Mayor of London’s own commitment to expanding opportunity across the City.

The WCEC bursary is open to applicants aged 18 to 25 who are beginning university in autumn 2026. Eligibility is deliberately broad: any young person with a parent or guardian employed in the cleaning industry anywhere in the UK is welcome to apply, regardless of the size or type of their parent’s/guardian’s employer.

How the bursary works

The successful candidate will receive £5,000 per year, paid in instalments across each semester. Funding continues for up to three years, subject to satisfactory attendance and progress. There is no restriction on the type of degree or course; the bursary is simply about creating an opportunity.

Applications will be assessed against four criteria: need, worthiness, endeavour and overall performance. A written personal statement is required, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview via Teams in early September. The first payment will be made in time for the start of the academic year.

Kevin Meighan, Master of the WCEC says, “We want to support young people from within our industry to go as far as their ambition takes them. It offers real financial support to students who might not otherwise be able to take up a university place.  It’s the right thing to do and it’s just the beginning. Dedicated, talented young people just need the opportunity to develop their potential.”

How to apply

Applications open on 1^st June 2026 and close on 1^st August 2026. Full details and the online application form are available at Breaking Barriers Bursary.

The WCEC encourages industry bodies, employers and contacts across the sector to share this opportunity as widely as possible.

If you would like to find out more about the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, or any of our initiatives or events, please email clerk@wc-ec.com, or visit www.wc-ec.com