Activities at Kirkburn Court Care Home
Here at Kirkburn Court, we aim to facilitate a personalised programme of meaningful activities, which are designed to promote independence, social stimulation and cognitive function. We strive to create a comfortable and safe environment where fun, creativity and individuality are encouraged. We feel it is important for us and residents to place value on yesterday, today and tomorrow – which is why we invest heavily in getting to know residents and learning their life history.
Our inclusive, yet respectful ethos is reflected in the wide range of activities we offer – ranging from larger structured group activities to one-to-one sessions. Our monthly activity programmes are extremely varied, but some of the activities you may expect to find include concerts, crafts, games, exercise sessions, reminiscing and outings. We also have a strong relationship with the local community and often invite external guests into the home, including performers, schools, and choirs.
Claire Burden
I began my career with Barchester in December 2017. Having worked within the teaching profession for the preceding 8 years, I feel that I bring a range of transferable skills to the activities team.
I strongly believe that the provision of activities is about so much more than just structured, planned events – capturing and celebrating the little moments in daily life, such as enjoying a chat and a cup of tea together, are equally as important.
Activities, no matter how big or small, should be at the heart of every home and that individuality should be celebrated. In addition, I feel that activities should take a person-centred approach, which is why I enjoy spending time with the residents and learning about their preferences and their history.
My own interests include football, politics, crafting and drinking tea, and I enjoy nothing better than engaging with residents on these topics! I aim to bring energy, a friendly smile and a willing ear to the home each day.
Read our brochure 'Life-enriching activities' for more information about life in our care homes.
Read our brochure
Activities and Events Partnerships
As part of our bespoke life-enrichment programmes, we host a number of live virtual events in the home on a regular basis through a number of partnerships with places of interest and world class performance companies
Life at Kirkburn Court Care Home
Music through the ages
Our homes had a brilliant time with curator Sarah Deters as she took us on a virtual ‘Music Through the Ages’ tour of St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room and Music Museum.
Our residents were thrilled to discover weird and wonderful musical instruments, hear their unusual sounds, and find out how instruments have changed over the last 500 years.
The virtual live event explored the world-renown collection of musical instruments on display at St Cecilia’s Hall, Scotland’s oldest concert hall.
Farewell Janet
In August, we have said goodbye to one of our longest serving team members. Janet, Head Housekeeper, is hanging up her mop after 22 years! Throughout her time at Kirkburn, Janet has helped to maintain our high standards and has been a great friend to staff, residents and their families. Her homemade fudge was legendary and we will all miss the never ending supply! Janet has some great plans to look forward to and we wish her a long and happy retirement.
International Cat Day
We recently celebrated International Cat Day. We spent some time chatting about our own cats aswell as having a go at various cat themed puzzles, quizzes and games. Some lovely reminiscing took place as we shared stories and photos of our cats. We had a meow-tastic day!
Beach Party
We had great fun at our very own beach party. We were decked out with flower garlands, hula skirts, inflatables and our very own tiki bar! Staff and residents enjoyed sampling some Pina Coladas aswell as icicles and ice cream. Great laughter ensued as we all had a go at doing the limbo and there were some great dance moves and techniques on show! We rounded things off with at an attempt at a conga up the lobby – great fun!
Owl Visit
What a brilliant afternoon we had as Bob’s Buddies came to visit us. Leo and Gizmo went around the whole home and residents and staff got the chance to stroke them and hold them on their arms. It was lovely seeing our residents interacting with the owls – with smiles, chatting and singing! A huge thank you to the family of one of our lovely late residents for making today possible – it was a lovely tribute.
Peterhead Scottish Week Parade
As part of our birthday celebrations, Kirkburn Court had a float in this year’s Scottish Week Parade. Staff and residents had great fun planning and making decorations for the lorry and our staff did us proud on the day – with some amazing costumes and dancing to be seen! Our Kirkburn bus also accompanied the lorry in the parade and it was lovely to have some our residents there with us! We received an amazing reception from the assembled crowds – it really was a great example of our continued community engagement. To top it off – our float won first prize!
