As demand for health and social care services continues to rise across Northern Ireland, a new home care provider is preparing to enter the market with a focus on personalised, relationship-led support. Visiting Angels Northern Ireland is set to launch in Belfast on February 5, positioning itself as an alternative to time-restricted care models by prioritising dignity, choice and continuity for clients and their families.
The launch comes as the region experiences a sharp increase in its ageing population, with the number of people aged 85 and over growing by nearly 25% over the past decade. This demographic shift has placed mounting pressure on traditional care systems, often leaving families frustrated by rushed visits that feel procedural rather than personal. Co-founder Upender Singh, a physiotherapist with experience across clinical and social care settings, said these challenges were a driving force behind the decision to introduce a different approach.
“I have always wanted to do something that genuinely helps people,” Singh said. “What matters most is making people feel safe, respected and listened to, especially during vulnerable stages of life.” At Visiting Angels Northern Ireland, care plans are designed around the individual, with an emphasis on building trust and meaningful human connection over time.
Community Engagement Officer Stephen Garrett echoed that philosophy, noting that trust and visibility within the community are essential in social care. He said the organisation’s emphasis on shared values and local engagement was a key reason he joined the team, adding that families need to feel confident they know where to turn for reliable support.
Overseeing day-to-day operations is Registered Manager Abigail Duffy, who began her career in care at 16 and has progressed through senior roles while continuing her professional studies. She advocates for an approach that recognises each client as a whole person rather than a schedule to be managed. Alongside its client-focused model, Visiting Angels Northern Ireland also promotes fair pay and professional development for carers, with plans to expand to additional locations and create new employment opportunities across the region.