Sons of Divine Providence changes name to avoid sect confusion

London, UK - A Roman Catholic charity is changing its name to stop people thinking it is a sect.

From 1 April, the Sons of Divine Providence will be known as Orione Care.

The charity, which has existed in England since 1953, employs 100 staff and provides five care homes, a day centre and 64 sheltered housing units.

"We are trying to give ourselves a better image," said Stephen Beale, chair of the charity. "Sometimes we are seen as a sect, which we are not."

The charity was founded in Italy in 1893 by Luigi Orione, whose name is being adopted by the charity. Orione was later canonised. No other aspect of the charity will change.

Secretary Michael Healy said: "The charity has operated under the name the Sons of Divine Providence for more than 50 years, but the name is often misunderstood and does not easily convey to the public what kind of organisation we are. Orione Care is a more modern name and immediately lets people know that we are a care provider."