When 90-year-old Mike Clarke first moved into Broughton House Veteran Care Village’s Independent Living Apartments, he wasn’t just choosing a new address. He was choosing familiarity, comfort, and a community that understands him.
A former Master Signaller in the Royal Air Force, Mike served for 22 years in Coastal Command, flying over the Atlantic in Avro Shackletons as part of Maritime Patrol operations. Life in uniform shaped much of who he is today, and even in retirement, that sense of structure, camaraderie and purpose has remained important to him.
So when Mike lost his wife in 2021 and decided to leave Leeds to be closer to his daughter in Manchester, Broughton House felt like the natural next step.
A home that offers independence with reassurance
The Independent Living Apartments at Broughton House are designed for veterans and their partners who want to maintain their independence while still being part of a supportive and welcoming community.
Each apartment offers a private, self-contained home with a spacious living area, double bedroom with en-suite, kitchenette, private phone line and complimentary Wi-Fi. Residents can live life entirely on their own terms, enjoying their routines and privacy, while knowing help is always nearby if needed.
For Mike, that balance has been invaluable.
“Everything’s sorted, including any maintenance jobs around the apartment. They just get it done,” he says. “I also have the peace of mind of knowing that I can hopefully continue to live and be supported here for the rest of my life.”
Life at Broughton House
Located just 20 minutes from Manchester city centre, the Veteran Care Village offers excellent transport links, including nearby tram stops and bus routes. There is also a regular minibus service for shopping trips, making it easy for residents to stay connected and independent.
But what truly makes life here special is the community.
Mike keeps an active and fulfilling routine. He drives, walks daily, uses the on-site gym, attends Mass, and even studies Spanish. Most importantly, he spends time socialising with fellow veterans, sharing stories and companionship that only those with similar experiences can truly understand.
He chose Broughton House partly for its “semi-military” feel, something that immediately felt familiar. The displays of military artefacts, the shared history, and the marking of key dates such as VE Day with commemorative events all help create a strong sense of belonging.
More than just a place to live
While independence is at the heart of the apartments, residents also have access to a wide range of support services should they need them. From housekeeping and personal care to nutritious meals, handyman support and laundry services, help is always available.
There is also a Veteran’s Mess Bar and Restaurant, regular activities and events, and 24-hour on-site staffing for complete peace of mind.
It is this combination of freedom and reassurance that makes life at Broughton House so unique.
A life still full of purpose
After leaving the RAF in 1974, Mike went on to work as a teacher supporting young people in care and later in the community. His sense of service never left him, and that same spirit continues today.
One of his sons even followed in his footsteps and now serves as a Squadron Leader at RAF Valley, a proud continuation of a family tradition of service.
Today, Mike enjoys a life that is both independent and supported, active yet secure, private yet social.
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If you or a loved one is a veteran or veteran’s partner seeking independent living within a supportive community, this could be the ideal next step. To find out more or arrange a viewing, please contact our Customer Service team at info@broughtonhouse.com, or alternatively, 0161 740 2737
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