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
Virtual event with Dr Tim Howard
Residents across our homes had a lovely time joining Dr Tim Howard, 4th generation GP, whose whole life has been about patient care, for an exciting virtual event to discuss his novel ‘Let’s Kill All The Lawyers’.
The novel is a medical fiction thriller that explores the impact of life and death events, mistakes and forgiveness, and the impact of law and justice on the day- to-day lives of ordinary people doing their best in difficult circumstances.
Residents had the chance to ask their own questions once the discussion was over and a great time was had by all.
Just passing through
Our residents had a lovely time joining Daniel Snowman, for an exciting virtual event to discuss his book ‘Just Passing Through’.
Author of over a dozen books, Daniel Snowman’s long and active life has led him to interact in countless ways with the wider world and with some of its most famous inhabitants. His memoir evokes these experiences via a series of vivid literary vignettes.
Our residents found the talk very intriguing and informative, and were happy to learn more about Daniel’s experiences around the world.
Virtual singing session
Our homes had a fantastic time with vocal coach Mark De-Lisser as he led an amazing virtual singing session for our residents to enjoy.
Our residents were able to learn different techniques as they sang the famous ‘I’m a Believer’ by The Monkees.
There were smiles and laugher all around. The session was such a success and was great for the mind, body and soul.
National Cupcake Day
What better way to celebrate National Cupcake Day that to decorate and eat our own cupcakes! We had great fun trying out different designs and even had a go with a piping bag! We had some lovely reminiscing chats about our favourite cakes and of course, it was all washed down with a lovely cup of tea!
Senior Health and Fitness Day
We are always a fan of promoting movement – whether big or small – all movement is good! It is all too easy for us to stiffen up! We decided to stick with our old favourites which we know everyone enjoys – balloon tennis, the parachute and a movement routine akin to everyday activities. Our movement sessions always go hand in hand with great hilarity and fun!
Jubilee Celebrations
We recently had a full week of celebrations including tea parties, concerts, royal themed bingo & quizzes, fish suppers from a local takeaway and a visit from the ice cream van! Staff and residents helped to decorate the home beforehand and we also received some lovely pictures from a local primary school too! We all needed a good lie down after our action packed week!
