Northamptonshire mum turns rock bottom into national award-winning cleaning business — with a mission to help others rise too
A Northamptonshire-based cleaning business owner is proving that rock bottom doesn’t have to be the end — it can be the start of something powerful.
National Cleaning Awards, held in Manchester, saw Northants Squad – Cleaning & Maintenance take home two major titles:
Biohazard Cleaning Company of the Year
Newcomer of the Year
…and a runner-up position for Commercial Cleaning Company of the Year
But behind the awards is a story far bigger than business.
Founder Becca Rigney, a local mum from Corby, built the company from nothing after experiencing one of the lowest points in her life.
“I hit rock bottom,” she said.
“And when you’re there, you have two choices — stay there, or fight your way out. I chose to fight. Not just for me, but for my kids, and for a better future.”
What started as a one-woman operation has rapidly grown into a recognised name across the Midlands, delivering specialist cleaning services to landlords, housing providers, and commercial clients — including high-risk environments such as biohazard and trauma scenes.
But for Becca, the business was never just about cleaning.
“It’s about people,” she explained.
“Behind every job, there’s a story — someone struggling, a property that’s been neglected, a situation that needs putting right. Our vision has always been simple: help people, make a difference, and leave things better than we found them.”
That ethos has shaped the company’s direction — from supporting vulnerable tenants and working alongside housing providers, to restoring homes that others would walk away from.
The award wins mark a major milestone, but Becca is clear it’s not the finish line.
“This isn’t just my win. It’s for every person who’s ever felt like they’ve got nothing left. You can rebuild. You can come back stronger. And you can create something meaningful out of it.”
With continued growth, national recognition, and a clear purpose driving the business forward, Northants Squad is setting a new standard — not just in cleaning, but in using business as a force for positive change.