In this weeks ‘Beyond The Badge’ segment, we caught up with Aimee Smallman and Tim Glover from the Sandwell In Reach to Care Home team. The team’s aim is to reduce hospital admissions from care homes by equipping staff with the knowledge and support needed to manage residents who may exhibit behaviours that challenge, often due to dementia or mental illness.
What does a typical day look like for you?
We’re a small but dedicated team of two, covering a wide area across Sandwell. Based within the Enhanced Community Mental Health Team, our focus is on supporting local care homes.
A typical day starts with screening any new referrals and gathering background information — including a person’s care history, current medications, and overall journey, to help us understand their needs more fully.
Much of our time is spent working directly with care home staff, offering reassurance, education, and hands-on support to help them feel more confident in managing residents.
We also liaise with GPs when needed, particularly to request routine health checks, as behaviours that challenge can sometimes be linked to underlying physical health issues like infections.
What made you want to work in the IRTCH team?
Tim: “I’m an older adult nurse by background and previously worked in the Older Adults Therapeutic Service. I was keen to develop my skills further, and when this opportunity came up, I went for it!”
Aimee: “I’ve worked in dementia services for many years. Before joining the IRTCH team, I was based in the dementia service at Russells Hall Hospital. This role felt like a natural next step.”
What do you do to relax and unwind?
Tim: "I like reading and listening to music. I also find having a hot shower helps me to relax and switch off from work.”
Aimee: “I love getting out for some fresh air while walking the dog. I’ve also been learning to play the piano and recently passed my Grade I exam — I’m excited to keep building on that.”
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Tim: "Seeing the difference you've made. Over the past four years, we've helped prevent numerous hospital admissions, which, for many of the residents we support, wouldn't have been the best environment for their needs.
We go into care homes to identify potential triggers and understand the reasons behind a person’s behaviour. That’s what makes the work so meaningful — knowing we’ve made a positive impact on the individual, their family, and the staff around them.
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to seeing the person, not just the behaviour. Families value that approach, and so do we.
It’s also incredibly motivating to be recognised for our work. We’re fortunate to have a very supportive manager, and the wider Enhanced Community Mental Health Team is fantastic to work with.”
Is there anything else you would like others to know about?
Both: ‘We are always happy to advise others. If you are not sure, just get in touch!