Our History

Praxis Care was founded in 1981 by Nevin Ringland providing a befriending service to people with mental ill health experiencing isolation.

Praxis Care was incorporated on 3 July 1984.

Praxis Care continued to introduce innovations throughout the mid 1980’s: Dispersed Intensively Supported Housing Service (DISH) promoting people’s independence with support tailored to the person’s needs and aspirations.

Launch of services on the Isle of Man.

Restructured to incorporate three well established charities in Northern Ireland: Respond, Challenge and NI Agoraphobia & Anxiety.

Launch of services in Great Britain.

New housing and support models for dementia, unique and highly regarded in Europe, were introduced.

Queen’s Award for Volunteering. Nevin Ringland won a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Launch of services in the Republic of Ireland.

Expanded services supporting individuals with personality disorder, autism and forensic backgrounds and whose behaviours challenged traditional service models.

Newly Designed Accommodation & Support model: Providing individuals with complex needs the opportunity of supported community living.

Praxis Care open its new ‘Centre of Education and Training’ on Windsor Avenue, Belfast, providing staff with internationally recognised and accredited training.

Praxis Care jointly appoints a Professor of Social Care in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast to drive research that underpins our practice and service design.

Nevin Ringland retired as Chief Executive Officer. Andy Mayhew newly appointed as Praxis Care CEO.

Andy Mayhew retired as Chief Executive Officer. Carol Breen newly appointed as Praxis Care CEO.

Praxis Care celebrates 40 years across 4 jurisdictions.