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
Senior Health and Fitness Day
We have recently celebrated Senior Health and Fitness Day by getting ourselves moving!
Helen and Neil were delighted to be guinea pigs to try out our new DIY air hockey and table tennis table! The competition was fierce and they had a great laugh, as did all the other residents and staff cheering them on!
We also had a few games of one of our old favourites, balloon tennis! It gets us moving, jumping, stretching and smiling unlike any other! We even dusted off the tin can alley to give our arms and shoulders a bit of a workout. Some of our residents and staff also had a go of our pedal machine too!
"Great fun and great exercise" - in the words of our residents.
Peterhead Academy Visit
We have recently had the pleasure of welcoming two sets of first year pupils from Peterhead Academy. The pupils brought along some song sheets and we enjoyed a big sing along together - accompanied by their music teacher on piano. We were also treated to a lovely cello solo. We then spent some time playing games together - including monopoly, dominoes and cards.
It was lovely to see the residents and pupils interacting with each other - sharing laughter and stories. The residents all agreed that the pupils were exceptionally well behaved and well mannered. They were also very thoughtful by taking the time to help the residents when playing the games. We thoroughly enjoyed their visit and are looking forward to welcoming them back soon.
RAF Hendon
Across our services we had a lovely time joining Rhiannon Watkinson from the RAF Museum London for an interactive talk exploring the exciting and innovative aviation history of Hendon.
Our residents were able to learn about the first flights from the fields at Hendon, the creation of the London Aerodrome and Battle of Britain pilots who flew from RAF Hendon.
The talk also included photographic and film material from the Museum’s archive. Residents across our homes had a fantastic time and we truly enjoyed the virtual experience.
Pets at the Palaces with Jon Sleigh
Residents across our services had a delightful time during a special virtual sensory storytelling event, led by Art Historian Jon Sleigh from the Historic Royal Palaces.
Jon took us on a journey to discover some of the more unusual and unexpected inhabitants of the palaces and the Tower of London, sharing fascinating stories about the pets at the palaces.
Whilst enjoying the virtual experience, our residents were treated to hot beverages, delicious biscuits, berries and cakes. It was a truly lovely time for all.
Boogie in the Bar
Some of our residents enjoyed a trip to this month's Boogie in the Bar event today. We loaded up on the bus and headed round to the Buchanhaven Hearts for an afternoon of boogieing! A great time was had by all and we can definitely say that Kirkburn was dancing up a storm all afternoon! We even won a sweetie hamper in the raffle! Well done everyone! We can't wait to attend again next month!
Celebrating the King's Coronation
Our residents and staff have had a great time joining in with various activities. We enjoyed a lovely tea party whereby we all came together to share our stories and memories about the Royal family, along with playing some royal themed games. We were very lucky that King Charles was also able to pop in by for an appearance too! We also had the crowning of our very own Kirkburn King and Queen! Everyone enjoyed watching the Coronation itself and we had a running commentary on who had the best outfits!
We rounded off our celebrations with a special visit to Buchanhaven School nursery, who had very kindly invited us along to join in with their celebrations. We were treated to a lovely afternoon fly and the residents and children had a great time together. A huge thank you to them for inviting us along.
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.
