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 Men's Day
In November, we have celebrated International Men’s Day.
Our lovely gents enjoyed spending time at the Kirkburn Inn – where a few drams and jokes were shared. We had good fun enjoying some card games aswell as having a go at darts. We tested our knowledge too with a sports quiz and we were so good that we are thinking about entering A Question of Sport!
All of our gents at Kirkburn were also presented with a wee gift set to mark the occasion.
The Great Kirkburn Bake Off!
We have recently hosted the first ever Great Kirkburn Bake Off! We had a range of entries from residents, families and staff. The theme was 'a fine piece' and all the entrants brought something along for our judges to sample. Margaret, our cook and Helen, our volunteer, took their judging duties very seriously and had a tough job selecting the winners.
Our final winners were -
Best Tasting - Gary and Karen's Canadian Roll
Best Presentation - Jane's selection of fudge, truffles and shortbread
Most Original - Jenna's Old School Sponge
Our overall Showstopper winner was Ethel with her Hummingbird Cake. Well done to all our entrants!
Halloween
We had a great time celebrating Halloween at Kirkburn this year.
Our residents and staff have had great fun dressing up and taking part in lots of fun games - including Dress the Mummy and Spider Splat. We may have even had a nibble on a few sweeties and cakes too!
A spook-tacular time has been had by all!
The Wallace Collection
Residents across our services had a lovely time joining Emily and Marie-Therese from the Wallace Collection, for a virtual introduction to Reubens' Rainbow Landscape.
Residents truly enjoyed the sensory walk through one of the museum’s most famous landscape paintings.
Everyone who joined had a wonderful experience and can’t wait to put their creative skills to the test by painting some landscapes of our their in the coming days!
Long Service Award
During October, one of our carers, Arlet, has celebrated 10 years of working at Kirkburn Court.
She was presented with flowers, a gift voucher and a commemorative pin by our Manager, David to mark the occasion. He thanked Arlet for her continued commitment, hard work and dedication.
A few drinks and nibbles were enjoyed to celebrate the occasion.
International Day of Older Persons
During October we have been celebrating all that is good about getting older.
And what better way to do that than have a party! We decided on a daytime disco so we dusted off the disco lights and glow sticks and got the fizz and nibbles at the ready!
Buchan Neuk's party was also expertly planned by Margaret and Charlie - who did a great job!
We all spend a lot of time not wanting to get older but we decided to focus on what is good about getting older - and we had some great answers to that question! We have all had a great time!
Upcoming events
Countdown to Christmas
Counting down the days to Christmas with a fun filled month ahead and we extend a warm invitation for you to join us - all welcome.
Merry Christmas!
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.
