Apparatus and method for controlling a cleaning robot

An apparatus for controlling a cleaning robot, wherein the cleaning robot is configured to be arranged in a service station;

• wherein the service station has an access opening formed to enable the cleaning robot to travels via the access opening towards the service station or away from the service station;
• and wherein the apparatus for controlling the cleaning robot comprises:
• a controller and one or more sensors connected to said controller, said controller being configured to ascertain, on a basis of said one or more sensors, sensor data indicating whether a body part of a user is approaching the access opening and/or whether a force is acting on a gate arranged at the access opening;
• and
• said controller being configured to operate the cleaning robot in dependence on the sensor data.