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
Valentine's celebrations
We held a Valentines themed café whereby residents and staff were invited along to enjoy a cuppa and a fine piece – with our finest china and table clothes looked out for the occasion! Our residents had done a great job making some decorations – including love heart wall decorations and candle holders for the tables. Our baking ladies also whipped up a batch of Valentines shortbread for our cake stands too. The occasion also gave us the opportunity for some reminiscing about our loved ones and many a funny story was shared about Valentines gifts from days gone by!
Winter Olympics
In honour of this year’s Winter Olympics, we have tried our hand at a few different themed activities. Firstly we had a few rounds of what we like to call ‘Snowman Slam’ – involving trying to knock down our homemade mini snowmen with pretend snowballs! There may have even been a few snowball fights too! We have really enjoyed watching the ice hockey and fancied trying out a game – although our version was called ‘carpet hockey’! There was great fun as residents and staff competed to score the most goals. As well as having lots of laughs, these activities have been great for encouraging movement too!
The Big Garden Birdwatch
We recently took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch. We spent some time monitoring the birds which visited our gardens and kept a tally of the different types we saw. However, we quickly concluded that the most common type was a seagull! We also used the occasion to engage in some other bird themed activities including bingo, quizzes and reminiscing. Well done everyone!
Robbie Burns Day
We have had a great time celebrating Burns Day! We were lucky enough to have a visit from a great local piper who very kindly went the whole way around the outside of the building so that all the residents could hear him. Our carer, Graham, then donned his kilt to perform the address to the haggis – to rapturous applause! We then enjoyed a lovely Burns lunch before trying our hand at a seated Highland Fling routine in the afternoon. We may not be entering Strictly any time soon, but we had great fun anyway!
Virtual coffee experience
We had a fabulous time joining NESCAFÉ’s virtual coffee experience.
We were able to look into how they sustainably farm their coffee beans, as well as, to have a virtual tour of one of their factories all from the comfort of our home.
To make things even more interesting, our residents had the chance to test their knowledge with an interactive quiz, and to the delight of all to taste the signature Sweet Cinnamon Shaken Iced Coffee cocktail.
Valentine's treats with Veg for Life
We had a lovely time joining Chef Alex Connell from Vegetarian for Life for a Valentine’s-inspired virtual cookery demonstration. Chef Alex created some delicious Valentine’s Day-inspired vegetarian desserts, which our residents had the opportunity to try too.
First, our residents sampled a wonderful sticky toffee pudding, which was absolutely heavenly. Then they tried hazelnut truffles which were a huge hit and finally they were treated to a chocolate orange cake which everyone adored.
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.
