Serving up compassionate care: Bromley entrepreneur swaps burritos for business inspired by gran

After experiencing the frustration of inadequate care for his gran, Vishal Patel was determined to make a difference. Seeing an opportunity to provide better, more compassionate care, he has launched Visiting Angels in Bromley – a team that cares for people in the comfort of their own homes. His philosophy is simple – when carers are looked after, they, in turn, provide better care for their clients.

Previously an accountant, Vishal’s career took a turn after travelling sparked a desire for something new.

He left the world of numbers behind for hospitality, launching a grab-and-go burrito business near St George’s Hospital in London. While running the business, he partnered with the hospital to provide meals to those in need – gaining a firsthand insight into the challenges hospitals face. It was during this time that Vishal saw the mounting pressure to vacate hospital beds and the growing need for better quality care – a realisation that would shape his next career move.

“During my time working with the hospital, I saw the urgent need for change in the care industry – particularly the need to support clients who want to maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes after a hospital stay,” said Vishal. “It’s what I would want for my parents in the future and, one day, even for myself. Being in a familiar environment makes a world of difference. When people feel comfortable and safe in their own space, their mental wellbeing improves and, with it, their overall quality of life.”

As well as his experience working with the hospital, Vishal’s personal experience with his gran further cemented his commitment to improving care. “As my gran grew older, I witnessed her increasing care needs,” shared Vishal. “In 2022, when she needed extra support, we struggled to find the quality care she deserved. Different carers were constantly coming in and out of her home, many of whom couldn’t fully understand her needs. Some arrived late because they were stretched too thin, overworked and overwhelmed. Seeing this was heartbreaking – it made me realise how urgently things needed to change.”

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. By offering financial rewards and avenues for career development, Vishal and the Visiting Angels team are committed to addressing industry challenges that frequently leave caregivers feeling undervalued and underapreciated.

As a Bromley native, Vishal is thrilled to make a difference in the community he grew up in. “I’m excited to build a network and form meaningful relationships within the community I love. My goal is to connect with local charities and community hubs, while taking the time to understand the unique needs of each client we serve.”

To find out more about Visiting Angels and their franchise opportunities, visit their profile.