In 2004 a team of three compassionate admiral nurses joined BSMHFT in partnership with Dementia UK. Fast forward two decades and so much has changed to provide the best care we can for our patients living with dementia.

Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses who provide life-changing support for people living with dementia as well as their loved ones.

Rewinding back the clock 20 years ago, the Trust identified the growing need for specialist support to help those living with dementia across Birmingham and Solihull. Their aim was to help more people living with the condition stay independent for longer – and to support the people caring for them along the way. Today, our team has doubled in size and there are now six Admiral Nurses working for the Trust.

Nurses Jackie, Simone, Marie, Tracy, Rob, Lisa, and admin support, Karen, each play a vital part of ensuring people living with dementia live the best lives they can. The team is there when things get overwhelming and offer one-to-one support, expert guidance and practical solutions that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

Located at Little Bromwich Centre, the team cares for around 40 patients who need active support. Described by carers as ‘warm and kind’, they treat every individual and their family unit on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that no one faces dementia alone.

An Admiral Nurse for 20 years, Jackie Gale Admiral Nurse Team Leader and Clinical Lead said:

“My mother who has sadly passed away was diagnosed with dementia aged 64 years young. This made me realise the huge impact it has not only on the person living with dementia but on families and what it is like to be on the other side of the fence as a carer. I love the variety of the role in that we support carers individually, in groups and out and about doing talks and teaching. Being part of the carers journey is a privilege and after 20 years still immensely humbling and rewarding.”

To celebrate the special occasion, the team will be at our Uffculme Centre Tuesday 18 June 10.30am – 2.30pm in the lower conservatory to educate people about dementia and the work that they do. Carers, staff, and service users are welcome to drop by to ask the team any questions you have or to simply celebrate their 20th anniversary with cake and refreshments.

For more information about the event, please email bsmhft.admiralnursingservice@nhs.net