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
International Chocolate Cake Day
We have recently celebrated International Chocolate Cake Day! And of course the best way to do that is to make a chocolate cake!
We were feeling so confident that we also make a batch of chocolate muffins that we could eat whilst the chocolate cake baked in the oven! A great team effort of measuring, creaming and mixing! All was enjoyed with a lovely cuppa and reminiscing about baking gone by
Flower arranging demo
Across our homes we had a fantastic time joining, Kathryn Delve, Master Florist, for a Valentine’s-inspired live virtual flower arranging demonstration. Kathryn shared brilliant and creative ways to decorate our tables with beautiful flowers that are sure to make your heart swoon!
Those participating in this virtual event put their skills to the test and followed along with some amazing creations of their own. Residents truly enjoyed the experience.
Home delighted with Care Inspectorate results!
Here at Kirkburn, we have recently undergone an unannounced inspection by the Care Inspectorate. We are now delighted to be able to share the feedback we received.
The home was assessed and graded on two key areas – 1. How well do we support people’s wellbeing, • People experience compassion, dignity and respect – Grade 6 (Excellent), • People get the most out of life – Grade 6 (Excellent), • People’s health and wellbeing benefits from their care and support – Grade 5, (Very Good), • People experience meaningful contact that meets their outcomes, needs and wishes – Grade 6 (Excellent)
Due to the way in which the Care Inspectorate collate the grades, we have been awarded an overall Very Good. We are absolutely delighted to achieve Grade 6’s (the highest possible) in three areas. These grades are certainly not being awarded around the country on any kind of regular occurrence, so that makes this achievement all the greater!
Burns Day Celebrations
We have had a lovely time celebrating Burns Day this year. Our preparations began early with the residents making some lovely table decorations - including napkin rings and flower arrangements. On the day, our haggis was expertly piped in by great local young piper Josh and then the address to the haggis was performed by our carer Graeme – who even donned his kilt for the occasion! After enjoying a lovely lunch we were then entertained by the ever popular Raymond – we had a great sing along to all the classic Scottish tunes! There may have even been some dance moves on show too!
Special Visitor
We have recently been delighted to welcome a new visitor to Kirkburn - Jaxon the dog!
Jaxon is a specially trained therapet who is registered through the Canine Concern Scotland Trust.
Our residents absolutely loved meeting him and he was showered with cuddles and compliments! We think Jaxon enjoyed his first visit too as his tail never stopped wagging!
He really brought so much joy to our residents and allowed many of them to reminisce about their own family pets.
We are delighted that Jaxon will be coming to visit us on a regular basis! Thank you so much to Jaxon's lovely Mum, Sharon, for bringing Jaxon in to meet us all.
Kirkburn Goes Gaming
January saw the debut of Kirkburn's Wheel of Fun..........and what fun we had!
Staff, residents and their families took a turn at spinning the wheel and waited to see what they might be doing - options ranged from answering a quiz question, doing an exercise to telling a joke or singing a song. We had a brilliant afternoon of light hearted fun - and that's what it's all about!
