Northamptonshire man launches care provider to make a difference
When Paul Brooks experienced first-hand the issues the care industry faces, he decided to launch a new in-home care company in Northamptonshire. Visiting Angels aims to raise the standards of care in the region, whilst providing much-needed support to both clients and their families.
“My experience in care has been eye-opening,” said Paul. “My mother was seen by 11 different carers in the space of four weeks and I was left wondering why she couldn’t be seen by a regular carer with a familiar face she was comfortable with. And, more importantly, someone who could spot if something wasn’t quite right. I soon realised that this lack of consistency is due to two main structural issues within the industry; carers not being rewarded properly and being expected to rush from one visit to the next without enough time to deliver proper care. Frustrated and feeling let down, carers then leave their jobs. I’m extremely proud to launch a care service that addresses these fundamental issues.”
Visiting Angels’ distinct difference comes from being ‘carer-centric’. Simply put, it means treating carers with the utmost respect, valuing them for their commitment and rewarding them both financially and with opportunities for career development.
“We pride ourselves on being different from other care providers. We promise our caregivers a fair wage, allow for longer care visits to clients and incentivise them to deliver a premium-quality standard of care. The purpose is to make them feel more valued in their role and enjoy their work which, in turn, will result in them delivering a much better quality of service. They are, after all, our Angels and we need to treat them that way.”
On the 5th August, Paul and Janet Smith, his Registered Care Manager, received approval to operate from the Care Quality Commission. Based at Sywell Aerodrome, Visiting Angels is already on the hunt for local care workers to satisfy the growing demand for its service. Within the next 12 months, the pair have planned incremental growth to bring at least 25 to 30 jobs to the area.
Janet has 20 years’ experience working in the care industry, with a clear passion for in-home care. In that time, she has become passionate for empowering her clients, allowing them all to have as much independence as possible. Visiting Angels now allows her to create an impact on a larger scale.
“I support my mother-in-law, who is in her 80s, to have a fulfilling life and ensure she is equipped to stay in the comfort of her own home. I know this is an important part of her life, being in an environment that she loves and is familiar with. I’m sure this is no different for other people who need a care service. I truly believe that Visiting Angels empowers those that need our support with positive and life-affirming care.”
In the wake of COVID-19, the pair recognise that their essential service is in demand more than ever before. Visiting Angels hopes to alleviate the pressure that has been placed on local hospitals by helping people get back into their homes.
“I feel extremely grateful to be in the position to change lives, especially at such a challenging time,” added Paul. “We aim to make waves in the local community, providing a service that not only improves quality of life for our clients but alleviates the pressure felt by family members too. We’re also proud to provide a rewarding career choice for our carers.”
Visiting Angels Northamptonshire will serve families of Northampton and its surrounding villages. For more information, visit www.visiting-angels.co.uk/northants or call Paul on 01604 904 004.
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Editor’s notes:
For more information, or to speak with Paul or Janet directly, please contact Liam on 07395 641 523 or liam@revpr.co.uk
Images attached: (L-R) Paul Brooks, Managing Director, and Janet Smith, Registered Care Manager.