In a crowning achievement that underscores the UK's leading position in the global care sector, two UK-based offices have triumphed at this year's prestigious Visiting Angels International Awards. At the international conference held in San Diego earlier this year, UK franchisees beat over 830 entrants to take home two of the biggest awards of the night.

Nicky and Mark Goodall, founders of VA North Shropshire, picked up the award for Best International Office, while Heidi Nursey, founder of VA Central Lancashire, picked up the Rising Angel Award. The success of these two offices is a testament to the remarkable impact Visiting Angels is making on the UK's in-home care sector, setting a new standard for care and compassion in service delivery.

Husband and wife duo Nicky and Mark Goodall launched their North Shropshire franchise in early 2022. With Nicky’s background in care and Mark’s in logistics management, the pair have taken their business from strength to strength. “A big part of why we set up the business was to give people the opportunity to be cared for in their own safe, comfortable space,” explained Nicky.

“I just knew that we could be doing more to provide high-quality care for our area, and to be recognised for our commitment to this by receiving such a prestigious award means so much to us. We’re incredibly proud of our wonderful, dedicated team for the amazing work they do.”

Launching Visiting Angels Central Lancashire only one year ago, former police officer-turned-philanthropist Heidi Nursey has already made a huge impact on care provision in her area. Delivering over 10,000 hours of care in their first year of operations alone, Heidi has been recognised as the Rising Angel for her commitment to changing the face of domiciliary care for the better in Central Lancashire. “Receiving the Rising Angel Award serves as a validation of our unwavering efforts to improve the lives of those we care for and their families,” said Heidi.

“It really reinforces our belief that every individual deserves compassionate care, every carer should have the recognition they deserve, and it motivates us to continue delivering the highest standards of service every day.”

Visiting Angels’ ‘carer-centric’ approach sets it apart from other companies in the in-home care sector. Carers working for Visiting Angels feel valued and respected for their commitment to the industry. Through both financial rewards, opportunities for career development and wellbeing considered a priority, the care provider is committed to addressing these existing issues surrounding the industry, which often leaves carers feeling underappreciated and undervalued.

“It’s a real credit to the hard work of our UK teams that they have been recognised above such high-performing offices,” said Dan Archer, Managing Director of Visiting Angels in the UK. “Their dedication, commitment and continuous positive attitude are clearly evident to see, and for both teams to be recognised after only a year of operations is just astounding. I’m endlessly proud of what our franchisees achieve and the difference they make to the lives of those most in need.”