The longest-serving member of staff at Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Salford has been honoured for her loyalty and dedication to the charity.
Picture by Gareth Jones
Catherine Healey has worked at Broughton House for 30 years. She began as a junior administrative assistant and now holds the role of director of business administration.
She received a Certificate of Meritorious Service for veterans and other service charities at the annual HM Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Awards.
The awards recognise members of the reserve forces, cadets, Cadet Force adult volunteers and charities which support veterans and the wider defence community across the region. They are facilitated by the North West of England and Isle of Man Reserve Forces’ and Cadet’s Association.
This year’s honours were presented at a ceremony held at The Monastery, in Gorton, Manchester.
Broughton House itself received a Lord-Lieutenant’s commendation for veterans and service charities.
Catherine was nominated by former Broughton House trustee Tom O’Brien, who said:
“Catherine is an absolute star – she’s loyal, committed and very kind-hearted.
“She would move heaven and earth to deliver the care and support to the residents of Broughton House and the veteran community. She has worked tirelessly and selflessly in supporting the charity, the home, veterans and their families. She is held in high esteem by the residents and staff, as the go-to lady who can assist and support them.
“Catherine has never sought recognition for the loyalty, service and commitment she has given over many years, but quietly, efficiently and effectively has worked steadfastly for the betterment of Broughton House and its residents.
“I had no hesitation in recommending her for the award.”
Catherine, who joined Broughton House in March 1993, said she was extremely proud to receive her commendation, adding:
“Broughton House is a very special, unique care facility for veterans, and it is my privilege to be able to work for such a worthwhile charity.”
Broughton House has cared for more than 8,000 veterans since it opened its doors to the ex-service community in 1916. It has recently been redeveloped into a complex with a 64-bed care home, including a 16-bed household dedicated to veterans with dementia, as well as independent living apartments, an array of modern facilities, a museum, gym, hairdressing and barber’s salon, and a restaurant and bar for residents.
There is also an Armed Forces Support Hub which provides welfare support and counselling for ex-service people of all ages living in the local community.
In an annual survey of residents’ family members conducted over the summer, 92 per cent of respondents said their relatives’ quality of life had improved since they moved to Broughton House.
Karen Miller, chief executive of Broughton House, said after receiving the Lord-Lieutenant’s commendation for veterans and service charities:
“We are proud to receive this award in recognition of all of our team who have served our veterans and their families with love and care since 1916.”
