Visiting Angels

Thinking of buying a care franchise? Ask these 5 questions

“The support around technology has been hugely valuable in helping us build a business that can grow sustainably. What’s particularly powerful is the ability to learn from the wider franchise network,” said Darryl Lahner, owner of Visiting Angels North Kent.

“Whether it’s care management systems, accounting software or secure communication platforms, there’s a huge amount of shared knowledge available. It means you’re not starting from scratch and can implement processes that are designed to scale as your business grows. So, when you’re shortlisting care franchises, delve into the technology stack and ask existing franchisees what their experience has been.”

Question 2: How will this franchise help me recruit and retain carers?

Recruitment remains one of the biggest challenges facing the care sector. However, successful providers know that attracting great people is only half the battle. Retaining them is equally important.

Lynn James, owner of Visiting Angels North Surrey, believes prospective franchisees should pay close attention to how a franchisor treats its workforce.

“Recruitment and retention isn’t rocket science, but it needs to be authentic. From the very first application, carers need to feel respected, valued and supported. The reason Visiting Angels stands out is because carer-centricity runs through the entire organisation. When caregivers feel genuinely appreciated, they stay longer, build stronger relationships with clients and help create a positive culture that attracts others.”

Question 3: How prepared is the franchise model for future changes in social care regulation?

The care sector operates within an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Franchisees should understand how they will be supported as legislation, compliance requirements and best practice continue to evolve.

Andrew Murray, owner of Visiting Angels South Middlesex, works with his Operations & Quality Assurance Manager Ashley Bailey, who believes this is one of the most important questions prospective franchisees can ask.

“Social care is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to understand how a franchise will help you stay ahead of changes rather than simply reacting to them,” said Ashley.

“One of the things we value most is the proactive support available through the franchise support team. Regular guidance, policy updates, webinars and compliance support give branches confidence that they’re prepared not only for today’s regulations but also for future developments within the sector.”

Question 4: What makes this franchise different in a crowded home care market?

With hundreds of care providers operating across the UK, understanding what truly differentiates a franchise brand is critical.

For Roderick Petty and Dawn Zuill, owners of Visiting Angels South Devon, the answer comes back to people.

“What makes Visiting Angels different is actually very simple. It genuinely begins with caring for your team. Many care providers are operating under increasing pressure, but Visiting Angels takes a different approach. By putting carers first, we create an environment where people feel valued, stay longer and build meaningful relationships with clients.

“For us, home care is not a checklist of tasks to be completed in record time. It’s about truly knowing our clients and fully supporting our carers, so they can focus on each client’s goals, independence, dignity and routines, helping them live the best life possible in the place they most want to be: their own home.

“We believe we’re in the relationship business first and the care business second. When relationships are strong, better care naturally follows.”

Question 5: How much autonomy will I have to build a care business that reflects my local community?

One of the biggest concerns for prospective franchisees is whether they will have the freedom to shape their business around local needs.

Pooja Patel, owner of Visiting Angels North Hertfordshire, says finding the right balance between structure and independence is essential.

“You benefit from a proven framework and trusted brand while still having the freedom to adapt your service to your local community. In North Hertfordshire, where there’s a diverse mix of cultures, languages and expectations around care, this flexibility allows us to adapt – from inclusive recruitment to delivering care that feels personal and respectful.

“It also enables us to respond beyond traditional care, through initiatives like our CPR outreach. It’s an initiative that’s very personal to me, as my dad died from a sudden heart attack at just 36. We teach CPR to members of the public using our resuscitation dummy at community events, helping equip people with lifesaving skills while raising funds for the British Heart Foundation.”

Dan Archer, UK CEO of Visiting Angels, said: “The care sector presents an incredible opportunity for people who want to build a successful business while making a genuine difference in their community.

“But choosing the right franchise as your partner is about much more than the initial investment. Our franchisees have shared the questions they believe matter most because they’ve experienced first-hand the difference those factors can make.”

For more information about Visiting Angels and their franchise opportunties, visit their profile.