Marking World Mental Health Day
On the 10th of October, the world comes together to recognise and celebrate World Mental Health Day (WMHD). This international event is a vital opportunity to raise awareness, promote mental health and wellbeing, and challenge the stigma that too often surrounds mental health issues. In the UK, it’s alarming to note that 1 in 4 people will experience mental ill-health at some point in their lives. This statistic alone underscores the pressing need for a unified, global approach to mental health.
A Global Movement Since 1992
The first WMHD was observed in 1992, led by the World Federation for Mental Health. Each year, a key theme is selected to focus global efforts on mental health awareness and to campaign for change. Since its inception, the day has grown to encompass a variety of perspectives on mental health from around the world, offering a platform for professionals, volunteers, and advocates to unite and share knowledge.
What Does This Mean for Broughton House?
At Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Manchester, World Mental Health Day offers a special opportunity to champion mental health and wellbeing within our community of veterans, staff, and residents. We are dedicated to the mental and emotional welfare of those we serve, recognising the growing need for robust mental health support among veterans and their families.
As we look back on our country’s history of military service, we acknowledge the changing needs of a new generation of veterans. Modern conflicts have introduced unique physical and psychological challenges, and our commitment to caring for veterans has evolved to meet these growing demands.
A Dedicated Mental Health Team
To enhance our support services, Broughton House has relaunched its Armed Forces Support Hub with a specific focus on mental health. This includes an Admiral Nursing service, a Dementia Care Navigator, and an Adult Veterans Mental Health Navigator. We are proud to offer comprehensive mental health and dementia care for veterans, addressing their needs across different life stages.

Admiral Nurse with Dementia patient. Broughton House, Salford, Manchester  

World Mental Health Day at Broughton House: What’s Planned?

Morning Activities
We’ll kick off the day with Tea & Talk, offering a mental health awareness quiz and an open discussion on how we can all promote positive mental wellbeing. Residents can participate in mindful creative activities, and each person will have the opportunity to create an Individualised Wellbeing Plan.
In our dementia households, we’ll focus on togetherness, using proactive communication, positive interactions, music, and gentle exercise to support residents with dementia.
Afternoon Activities
The afternoon will feature a fully inclusive exercise session in our Veterans Mess, designed to promote mental health and wellbeing. We’ll wrap up the day with a Systematic Relaxation Session, helping residents and staff alike to unwind and reflect on their wellbeing.
For residents with cognitive impairments, we’ve prepared sensory-based activities including art, music, massage, and guided relaxation. These sessions will aim to engage the senses and support emotional and physical relaxation.
Supporting Our Staff
The mental wellbeing of our staff is equally important. Throughout the day, our team will have access to a special staff resource pack, filled with strategies to support their own mental health. From finding a healthy work-life balance to developing personal wellbeing plans, we want to ensure that our carers are cared for, too.

Reflecting on Success

How will we know if we’ve made an impact on World Mental Health Day? At the close of the day, we hope that both residents and staff will have developed a deeper understanding of mental health, participated in meaningful activities, and fostered a stronger sense of community. Our goal is to empower everyone with the knowledge and strategies needed to support positive mental health, not just on this day, but every day.
By engaging in creative, physical, and mindful activities, we aim to ensure that everyone at Broughton House feels included, empowered, and equipped to care for their own wellbeing.

Broughton House care home Salford supporting the military community and their families.
Pictured matron Helen Pervaiz and May Thatcher playing a new projection game that makes exercising fun.

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