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
Virtual trip to Cornish Seal Sanctuary
A big thank you to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary for the fantastic live virtual event today!
Residents across our services loved seeing the seals up close and learning about the incredible work the sanctuary does to protect them and other wildlife in Cornwall as well.
Everyone truly enjoyed the experience.
Kirkburn Olympics
We had a brilliant week during August as we hosted our very own Kirkburn Olympics!
If it is good enough for Paris, then it is good enough for Peterhead!
Across the week, residents and staff took part in 5 events - Bean Bag High Jump, Pool Noodle Javelin, Basketball, Duster Sprint and Relay.
We all had a great time and the competition remained friendly (mostly)!!
Gold, Silver and Bronze medals were presented, along with certificates for those who took part aswell.
Well done to all our competitors!
International cat day
During August, we have celebrated all things cat for International Cat Day!
Our cat mascot did the rounds and we also had a go at various cat themed puzzles, quizzes and games.
We were also delighted to welcome back Cats Pyjamas - a one woman theatre show. Carole kept us all entertained with various costume changes and dances, aswell as her amazing singing voice. The theme for the show was summer holidays and she performed songs from many different countries.
We all had a great time - you might even say it was 'meow-tastic'.
Pony visit
We recently welcomed some very special visitors to Kirkburn - two miniature ponies called Millie and Dusty!
Our residents and staff had a brilliant time meeting them and many commented on their soft fur, beautiful hair and eye lashes.
It was lovely to see our residents interacting with the ponies and you could really see the enjoyment that they received from clapping and chatting to them.
We would highly recommended Joyful Ponies & Pygmy's - Animal Assisted Therapy for a visit. The ladies and the horses are lovely. We have already booked them to come back soon with their pygmy goats!
New Technology
We have recently taken delivery of our new Digital Rainbow Tablet.
We still have a lot to learn but we have been trying out some of the basic functions. We are very happy to report that it has been a hit so far.
Diane had a go at a word search, Margaret tried her hand at one of the quizzes, Gordon was shopping for a new tractor on You Tube and a group of staff and residents in Memory Lane had a great time trying out the spot the difference.
This technology has an endless list of possibilities and it has been great to see the engagement of the residents so far. Stay tuned to see what we try out next!
Homes join 100th virtual event
Barchester care homes and hospitals nationwide linked together for a fantastic quiz in celebration of Barchester’s 100th live virtual event.
Residents engaged in a variety of questions ranging from historical trivia to visual puzzles and brainteasers.
Everyone who joined had a fantastic time and enjoyed some friendly competition.
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.
