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
Remembrance Day
Our residents marked Remembrance Day by working hard to create some lovely collages to display in the home. They teamed up by colouring, painting, cutting and gluing to produce two lovely displays. Our residents also gathered in our lounges to watch the ceremonies on TV and to observe the minute’s silence.
Barchester Care Awards
We have recently been celebrating a great achievement by two of our team members at the annual Barchester Care Awards. Following their victories at regional level, both Susan Simpson and Ryan Morrison were up for Administrator of the Year and Dementia Champion respectively at the national awards. We are delighted to announce that Susan won Administrator of the Year for the whole of the UK! Staff and residents at Kirkburn were able to watch the ceremony via video link and there was a huge day of celebration. Well done to both Susan and Ryan.
Creative care in the Bloo Toon
To mark International Older Person’s Day on 1st October, we have recently teamed up with three other local care providers in a celebration of the talents and creativity of our residents. We joined forces to produce a creative showcase event which was held in Peterhead town centre and featured displays of resident’s crafts, produce, cooking and lots more. A particular highlight was the video reel showcasing many special moments including residents playing musical instruments, reading poetry and singing. The event provided a great opportunity for members of the local community to engage with the life enrichment programmes and staff.
Kirkburn Kitchen
Our residents have been busy cooking up a storm as they tried their hand at jam muffins. Everyone pitched in to weigh, measure and mix all the ingredients before carefully spooning into paper cases. We decided that we needed some extra muscle so Nelson, Bob and Neil were drafted in. Turns out they are a dab hand at baking so hopefully we will be able to call on their expertise in the future! Our trusty table top oven did a great job of cooking our muffins and they were then enjoyed with a lovely cup of tea.
Care Assistant celebrates long service
A Care Assistant at Kirkburn Court in Peterhead has received a prestigious 20 Year Service Award in celebration of working at Barchester Healthcare for 20 years. Barbara Gravells, Care Assistant, started at Barchester in August 2002 and has worked with residents and their relatives to ensure that their needs have been met over the years.
David Garland, General Manager of Kirkburn Court said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating 20 years of loyal service with Barbara. She has demonstrated her dedication and loyalty to this home and its residents year after year. I speak for all of us here at Kirkburn Court when I say that I’m looking forward to many more years of working with Barbara”
Royal Botanic Garden
Our homes enjoyed a wonderful virtual tour of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh with Community Engagement Manager, Charlotte Walker, and Botanic Cottage Operations Co-ordinator, Laura Gallagher.
The residents were thrilled to learn more about the history of the beautiful Garden, which is now a home to an impressive plant collection from around the world.
Charlotte and Laura also gave a demonstration of making fresh herbal tea and were happy to answer our questions. The virtual experience was truly enjoyed by all who joined.
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.
