A London assisted living and housing services social enterprise is celebrating after winning a prestigious national award.

The Virtual Reality (VR), VR Wellness Programme by Apax was named winner of the Development and Innovation category, at this year’s Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards.

Now in its 11th year, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards are organised by Care Management Matters (CMM), and developed in conjunction with the National Care Forum, a membership body representing not-for-profit organisations operating in the care sector.

The awards recognise the hard work, dedication, innovation and excellence of everyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives, whether they are supporting children or adults. Entries to the 2026 awards will be opening later this year and local people working for a not-for-profit organisation can register their interest to find out more now.

The accolade was given to Apax, the first UK organisation to integrate VR technology into its supported housing services. Apax is a multi-award-winning, values-driven, non-profit social enterprise that provides supported housing. It is committed to helping vulnerable adults facing homelessness and mental health challenges across Southeast London by integrating cutting-edge solutions such as VR Wellness, immersive guided meditation, and AI coaching.

This initiative is a key step toward pioneering new approaches to mental health support by leveraging technology to transform well-being. VR Wellness combines immersive guided meditation with AI coaching to support individuals facing homelessness, depression, anxiety, and mental health challenges. By improving emotional regulation, reducing symptoms of depression, and fostering resilience, it empowers individuals on their journey toward independence and stability. Apax recently undertook a successful digital transformation to facilitate best practices and continuous improvement via, for example, workflow automation and the development of collaborative/co-operative systems.

Apax’s unique VR Wellness programme successfully demonstrates what an invaluable aid to mental health, daily mood management and autonomy such immersive environments can be for those in supported housing.

Commenting on their success, Anousha Vahdaty, Director at Apax said: “We’re incredibly proud to have won a Markel 3rd Sector Care Award, and to have had the opportunity to be among so many inspiring individuals and groups who make up the not-for-profit care sector. “

Israa Qaddourah, Project Growth Leader at Apax, added: “Leading the VR Wellness programme from an initial idea to a transformative initiative with real impact has been an incredible journey, made possible by an exceptional team and the residents who have embraced it. This project has not only redefined support through innovative technology but has also empowered individuals on their paths to well-being.

“I am incredibly proud of the team at Apax, whose relentless dedication, innovation, and outstanding service continue to transform lives, foster resilience, and create lasting opportunities for those in need. Through our holistic approach to mental health recovery, homelessness prevention, social inclusion, and pioneering Healthtech solutions, Apax is setting new standards in integrated support services.

“Our purpose is to empower individuals to lead healthier, more independent lives, strengthen communities, and drive long-term recovery. Winning this award is a testament to the meaningful impact we strive to create across London.”

Held at The Grand Hotel in Birmingham, the award ceremony was hosted by actress and television presenter Sally Lindsay and brought together esteemed leaders in health and social care from across the UK to learn about and applaud the diverse work of the winners and finalists.

Neil Galjaard, the divisional managing director at Markel, stated: “Each year, we are humbled and inspired by the dedication, resilience, and compassion of those working in the third sector – Apax truly embodies this and it’s inspiring to see their journey.

“Apax demonstrated how their innovation has been used to improve and invigorate outcomes for both residents and staff. Since its implementation, it has boosted mood, increased engagement and motivation, supported practical accomplishments, and ultimately enhanced overall wellbeing. This is a fantastic example of innovative technology used to create a positive human experience.

“At a time when their work is more vital than ever, it’s an honour to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals in the not-for-profit sector. Sharing their stories is essential to showcase the incredible difference they make every day, and the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards serve as the perfect platform to accomplish this.

“Now in its eleventh year, we are immensely proud to partner with CMM again to support these awards. The awards remain free to enter, with complimentary tickets for the ceremony, ensuring barriers for entry are removed and that we can celebrate the best in the third sector.

“The winners of the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards exemplify this commitment, going above and beyond to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Congratulations to the Apax for their exceptional work. Your dedication and influence to supporting others is truly inspiring—thank you for all that you do!”

Entries to next year’s awards will be opening later this year for anyone working in the not-for-profit sector who is making a positive difference to people’s lives. Anyone can enter themselves or nominate someone else in one of the categories – no matter what their position in an organisation. More information on the benefits of entering and winning the awards can be found on the Why Enter? page.

Markel is widely recognised as a key supporter to the care sector through the provision of specialist insurance, legal, tax and consultancy capabilities. One such service the company provides to the sector is its specialist care consultancy, Markel Care Practitioners, which exists to provide support across a range of issues such as risk management, inspection preparation and continuity planning.

Those wishing to find out more about the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards, or looking to register their interest for this year’s entry window, can do so at: care.uk.markel.com/care-awards/