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
DIY Afternoon Tea
Residents recently enjoyed a nostalgic afternoon in our remembrance room. One of the lifestyle activities that is greatly missed by many of our ladies is making afternoon tea and also doing the washing up. So we dusted off the old tea set and we all mucked in to prepare a pot of tea and also a cake stand with lots of lovely cakes! Afterwards everyone took part in the washing and drying of the dishes. The ladies had a lovely afternoon of chat, reminiscing and fun. One resident, Emily, said “we’ve all worked together”
Sunshine cards
Residents and staff have enjoyed the introduction of a new feature into the home recently. In each unit, there are a set of sunshine cards on display, and they can be taken and handed out in order to spread some cheer. Each card has a positive message and come with the aim of bringing a smile to the faces of those who receive them. One resident, Mary, said “what a lovely idea to help cheer everyone up!”
Proud activity
Residents recently enjoyed an afternoon of reminiscing and chat by thinking about the things that have made them proud in their life. The residents were delighted to share stories about the people and the events they are proud of and it was lovely to hear all the memories. It was an afternoon filled with love and laughter and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Activities Coordinator, Claire Burden, said “It was so heart-warming to hear the residents speak so fondly about their lives and their loved ones
National Fitness Day
Residents recently enjoyed a day of themed activities for National Fitness Day. The main focus of the day was movement and looking at as many ways of getting us all moving as possible. Throughout the day various activities were enjoyed including music and movement classes, exercise bingo, balloon swatting and movement pick n’ mix. An enjoyable day was had by all and we were all ready for a rest by the end of the day! Activities Coordinator, Claire Burden, said “we are continually encouraging our residents to move more in a variety of different ways, but it was great to have a fun filled day focussed on movement activities
Home hold virtual cat show
At Kirkburn we love our cats and we are hosting our very own virtual cat show for residents, family, and friends to shared their furry friends with us all too.
Cats have fun loveable quirks, tricks and general gorgeousness. So, over August they held their first ever virtual cat show at Kirkburn where we’ve got a whole host of fun categories.
Photos of cats with the category they are entered for were emailed to the home. Categories include the following, Best Dressed, Happiest Smile, Best in show, Best Trick/pose, Sleeping Beauty and Waggiest Tail.
Beach Party
Summers in the North East of Scotland can be quite variable, so we decided to create our own day of sunshine by holding a beach party! The home was decorated with inflatables including palm trees, beach balls and fish. Everyone got into the spirit and donned an array of fancy dress including grass skirts, sunglasses and flower garlands. During the party, the residents took part in a game of ‘hot beach ball’ and also enjoyed individual tubs of ice cream for a sweet treat. Great hilarity was had during our attempts to play limbo and the staff were cheered on by residents. Claire Burden, Activities Coordinator said “What a fantastic afternoon we had, it was brilliant to see the residents let their hair down and join in with the fun. I have even had a few requests from residents if they could keep their fancy dress outfits to wear again!”
