It’s not every day your inbox lights up with a message from the Mayor of Greater Manchester.

But last week, that’s exactly what happened – a personal thank you from Andy Burnham, recognising the work we’re doing at Adept to raise employment standards and champion fairer work across the region. It’s rare, its humbling, and it’s something I won’t forget anytime soon.

We’re not in this for the recognition – but when it comes directly from someone who’s leading the charge on good employment in Greater Manchester, it genuinely means a lot. And more than anything, it’s a reflection of the team. Of the people at Adept who show up, care deeply, and give their all. Thanks again, Andy – your words meant a lot.

And if that wasn’t enough motivation last week… I also found myself knee-deep in a step challenge I didn’t see coming.

Paul Buckley over at Stamford Quarter decided to throw down the gauntlet via our YuLife app – a little 100-coin wager to see who could rack up the most steps. A friendly challenge, until you realise we’re both as stubborn as each other.

Paul was taking a rest day. I figured I’d bank some early distance – so by the time he checked the app, I’d already clocked 20,000 steps. Naturally, the stubborn sod put his boots on and went for a hike. I checked back in at around 5pm… 40,000 steps. Seriously.

But two can play at that game. I laced up, hit the pavement again, and by bedtime, the final numbers were in:

Paul Buckley – 50,007
Nick Cooper – 55,160

In the immortal words of Luke McGovern: “In your face, Paul.”

It’s a good laugh – but there’s a serious side too. We use YuLife to support our team’s physical and mental wellbeing, encouraging healthier habits through walking, mindfulness, and friendly challenges like this. It’s one of the ways we try to make the workplace feel more human – because when people feel better, they work better.

And if anyone fancies a challenge, I’m always game!

Speaking of feeling good – we had even more reason to celebrate last week.

• Our new cleaning contract in Leeds is mid-mobilisation, with 15 colleagues joining us through TUPE. Across our recent wins, that’s 26 new people becoming part of the Adept team.
• We scored a perfect 100% in our Achilles audit, with several areas rated as highly commended. Huge credit to Louise Bamber and the team – it’s not easy to hit that standard.
• And one of our brilliant officers has won a BSIA Outstanding Act Award for the Yorkshire & Humberside region. He’s being presented with the award this week, so you’ll have to wait for the name drop!

And finally,

Burnley are back in the Premier League.
A 2-1 win over Sheffield United sealed promotion – and while the joy is real, I’ll admit it’s tinged with just a hint of dread at having to suffer through another season of VAR…