Working with the system: A systemic consultation approach to working with Behaviours that Challenge

Behaviours that challenge shown by residents with dementia are frequently encountered within care home environments. Staff often seek support from the Care Home Liaison team, with requests typically framed around strategies or medication. This paper describes a practical framework for systemic consultations in care homes, considering how context, power and social identity shape the work. The approach focuses on the strengths and resources of the team by understanding more about the system around the resident and inviting multiple perspectives in relation to the behaviour. Feedback suggests that whilst behaviours that challenge may not always reduce significantly, the staff have a deepened understanding of the resident and feel more confident to respond.