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.
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
The Final Furlong
In honour of this April’s Grand National - we at Kirkburn decided to host our own 'Kirkburn National'!
With our 'posh' hats and glasses of fizz at the ready, we all joined together to compete in some very tense racing!
We relied on the luck of dice to help our individual horses to make it to the finish line - but there was great concentration involved! We all had a great time engaging in some racing fun!
Games Room
Our lovely Kirkburn residents have recently enjoyed using our pop-up games room. We had a variety of games on offer – including snooker, table tennis and darts. The room was set up for a week and residents and staff loved being able to pop in at various points to have a game.
There was even some healthy competition developing! Many of our gents played snooker in their younger years so it be proved to be a great reminiscing tool – aswell as being lots of fun!
Easter at Kirkburn
During April, we all had a great time celebrating Easter.
From decorating eggs and bonnets to baking and eating chocolate – we did it all! We even had a couple of Kirkburn Easter bunnies doing the rounds gifting Easter eggs to everyone! An egg-tastic time was had by all.
Spring Walks
During April, Margaret, Una and Sally enjoyed a lovely walk round the nearby Landale Gardens.
We took advantage of the milder weather and loaded up our flask for a wee tour.
During our browse around the gardens, we happened to meet two lovely dogs called Max and Buster. The ladies were delighted to have a clappie, and they proved to be the highlight of our trip!
We all thoroughly enjoyed the fresh air and are looking forward to getting out more now that spring has arrived!
St Patrick's Day!
We have had great fun in March celebrating St Patrick’s Day. As well as donning some of our fancy dress attire, we have joined in with a range of different themed activities.
We have tested our knowledge with our Irish quizzes, attempted to do some seated Irish dancing, tried our hand at reading some limericks and even played a few games of gold coin toss!
The greatest hilarity came when we assigned everyone their ‘Leprechaun Name’ based on their first name and birth month. A great laugh was had by all.
International Women's Day!
We have recently celebrated International Women's Day here at Kirkburn. The Kirkburn Inn pub was open for the occasion and many ladies popped by for a drink and a blether.
We also tested our brains with a famous women's quiz and then enjoyed a game of tea-themed bingo. Of course, all men were barred for the day!
Our lovely lady staff members also received a wee gift to mark the occasion. Three cheers to all the Kirkburn ladies!
Upcoming events
Community Cafe - Last Tuesday of the month
Do you fancy some company and a good blether? Come and join us at our monthly community cafe.
Carer's Support Group - 4th Wednesday of the month
Hosted by Dementia Advisors from Alzheimer's Scotland, come along for advice, support and guidance on local services. All welcome.
