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
Our new visiting suite
Residents and their families have been enjoying getting to use our new indoor visiting room this month. The small lounge at the front of the building has been converted into a cosy and safe indoor visiting space to be used by residents and their families. As the Scottish winter weather was beginning to set in, it was clear that outdoor garden visits were no longer an option – and our residents and families have been delighted to now enjoy visits in our new indoor space. Complete with a speaker/microphone system and a large viewing window, feedback has been very positive from both residents and their visitors.
Halloween crafts
Halloween preparations are in full swing here at Kirkburn. We have decided to adopt a handmade approach this year and make as much of our own decorations as we can. Residents have been getting crafty and have been making various wall decorations and colouring pictures. Great hilarity has ensued as we have been sharing stories about childhood trick or treating, ghosts and spiders! Activities Coordinator, Claire Burden, said “The residents have really enjoyed making the decorations this year and are really proud to see them displayed around the home.”
Flower arranging
Our residents decided that our dining tables needed some brightening up so we recently made some fresh flower arrangements. In trying to do our bit for the environment, we used recycled jars and tubs from previous arrangements and filled them with a lovely array of fresh flowers. The residents spent time carefully selecting the flowers they liked – some opted to create smaller arrangements, while some decided the more flowers the better! Many flower and gardening tips were also exchanged during the afternoon! One resident, Diane, said “the tables look much brighter”
DIY Afternoon Tea
Residents recently enjoyed a nostalgic afternoon in our remembrance room. One of the lifestyle activities that is greatly missed by many of our ladies is making afternoon tea and also doing the washing up. So we dusted off the old tea set and we all mucked in to prepare a pot of tea and also a cake stand with lots of lovely cakes! Afterwards everyone took part in the washing and drying of the dishes. The ladies had a lovely afternoon of chat, reminiscing and fun. One resident, Emily, said “we’ve all worked together”
Sunshine cards
Residents and staff have enjoyed the introduction of a new feature into the home recently. In each unit, there are a set of sunshine cards on display, and they can be taken and handed out in order to spread some cheer. Each card has a positive message and come with the aim of bringing a smile to the faces of those who receive them. One resident, Mary, said “what a lovely idea to help cheer everyone up!”
Proud activity
Residents recently enjoyed an afternoon of reminiscing and chat by thinking about the things that have made them proud in their life. The residents were delighted to share stories about the people and the events they are proud of and it was lovely to hear all the memories. It was an afternoon filled with love and laughter and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Activities Coordinator, Claire Burden, said “It was so heart-warming to hear the residents speak so fondly about their lives and their loved ones
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.
