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
American Independence Day Party
In July, we have celebrated Independence Day by partaking in a few American themed activities. Firstly we tested our knowledge with a bit of an American music quiz, before trying our hand at 'beer pong' and basketball. As it turns out, we have a pretty good shot here at Kirkburn! All the staff and residents were cheering each other on!
We also sampled some hot dogs and milkshakes too! Great fun was had by all.
Virtual event with Wall's
Residents across our homes had a fantastic time during a special live virtual event in celebration on National Ice Cream Day. Wall’s team took us on a great journey through history, sharing fascinating details about the brand since its launch in 1922. We learned about major innovations such as the introduction of Mr Whippy, Cornetto, Viennetta, Twister, and Carte d'Or.
Residents were treated to a singalong to Cornetto classic ads, an interactive quiz about fun Wall’s facts and best-of-all, an ice-cream tasting session. It was a delightful experience for everyone, especially our ice-cream lovers.
A dog is for life
Residents across our homes had a fantastic time during a special live virtual event, led by Jennifer and Emily from Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity. Jennifer and Emily took us on a journey to discover the rich history of Dogs Trust and their facilities.
Using captivating video and photo footage, our residents were able to explore rehoming centres and learn more about the highest level of welfare offered there. It was a delightful experience for everyone, especially our dog lovers.
Magic Moments
As part of our 'Magic Moments' series, we like to create individual experiences for our residents.
Recently, the lovely Helen enjoyed a trip out to her beloved hometown. When we asked Helen if she could go anywhere or do anything, her answer was immediate - "I would go to the best place in the world........Strichen!"
We spent some time touring the village on foot and went to many of Helen's old haunts - including the her school, the bowling green and of course Hospital brae, where Helen spent many days playing as a youngster! Helen was clearly in her element as she regaled us with lots of stories as we wondered round.
We topped off our visit with a wee surprise - some of Helen's family came along to join us for a fly at the lodge cafe! A special lovely morning for Helen.
Donkey Visit
We have had some special visitors at Kirkburn recently and they were of the big eared variety! Our residents, staff and visitors had great fun meeting Pugh and Barney!
The sun came out just in time for us to gather outside and greet our guests. We learned some fun facts about the donkeys and all their likes and dislikes. They were able to do some window visits too and got lots of waves!
A huge thank you to Jenny's Donkeys from Inverurie for coming to visit us!
A Fond Farewell
As you may have noticed, Kirkburn has been undergoing some refurbishment over the last few months! Although the work is not quite finished, the project is nearing the end. We recently took some time out to thank the guys by presenting them with a card and cake.
They have become part of the furniture over the past few months and the residents and staff have really got to know them. Some special friendships have been formed, none more so than with our resident Sandy. It has been the highlight of his day to see the guys and he has enjoyed having so much banter with them.
Not all of the guys who have worked on the project are pictured here - but we would like to say a massive THANK YOU to Bruce, Adam, Stuart, John, Jamie, Mark, Paul, Sandy, Stevie, Ryan and Lee (All from JBS). There have also been other companies who have been involved too but we will do our full list of thank you's at the end.
We look forward to sharing some pictures with you once the project is fully completed, but for now all we will say is that Kirkburn really does have the WOW factor!
