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
Icelandic Puffin Sanctuary virtual visit
We took a wonderful virtual trip to Iceland’s Puffin Rescue Centre at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary.
We were able to virtually meet some of the rescued Atlantic Puffins and to learn interesting facts about their care and unique lives. We took a peek into their lives in the wild, the Puffling rescue program in the Westman Islands, and how SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary’s team takes care of these charismatic little birds each day.
It was a very exciting experience, enjoyed by all.
WW2 virtual talk with Blenheim Palace
Ahead of Armed Forces Day, we were transported back in time for a World War II themed talk and tour of Blenheim Palace, hosted by Antonia Keaney, the Palace’s social historian and author.
Entitled ‘Evacuees and Espionage,’ Antonia’s wartime themed talk focused on how the Marlborough family, estate staff and the Palace itself played a full and energetic part in the war effort.
The talk and tour told the story of how the Palace prepared for the worst, survived the onslaught of 400 boys being evacuated to Blenheim and kept the secrets of MI5.
It was a lovely experience, enjoyed by all.
Residents enjoy tour of Hereford Cathedral
We had a lovely time joining the team from Hereford Cathedral for an exciting virtual session.
We enjoyed a glimpse of this spectacular building and its treasures in a series of short pre-recorded videos. From the stunning gardens which lead down to the River Wye, to the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library.
It was wonderful to learn more about the history and beauty of Hereford Cathedral.
The Sound of Music
Kirkburn reached a very important milestone this month – the long awaited return of a music concert! Previous to the restrictions, we had a live music concert every week so it was absolutely brilliant that we have now been allowed to host our very first outdoor concert. We were all hopeful that the Peterhead weather would hold out and thankfully it did! Calum McDonald was a regular performer here at Kirkburn so we were pleased to welcome him back – along with his range of sing along classics! Our patio area around the back of the building was used as the stage and our residents watched from room windows, the lounges and some even braved the elements and sat outside to watch! It was an amazing sight, seeing our residents singing, dancing and waving arms along all the windows of the building. Claire Burden, Activities Coordinator, said “It is difficult to put into words just how amazing this concert has been – music is such a big part of life here at Kirkburn and we have missed our concerts so much, it was actually quite an emotional afternoon.”
Kirkburn Claik
This month we have been touring the home with the ‘Kirkburn Claik’ Newsagent Trolley. We have visited all the residents with a complimentary array of reading materials with something for everyone including fishing, cars, football, crafts, gardening and lots more. We also had a lovely selection of sweeties which went down a treat! We even had some extra help along the way in the form of some residents lending a hand pushing the trolley! Claire Burden, Activities Coordinator, said “It has been great seeing everyone get involved and all the residents were delighted with their new goodies.”
Flower arranging
Some of our lovely ladies have been spending time creating decorations for our dining room tables. They selected a range of fresh flowers and arranged some in jars and other as small posies. Everyone agreed that they really brightened up the tables. It was a great effort by the ladies. One resident, Sally, said “they look beautiful.”
