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.
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
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.
Beach Party
July saw the return of the annual Kirkburn Beach Party!
We had great fun donning our summer gear and enjoyed sampling a few cocktails!
Great laughter ensued as staff and residents had a go at the limbo - although there may have been a bit of cheating going on in places!
We also had a wee game of beach volleyball - which gave us a really good workout!
The weather outside may not have been sunny but we certainly created some summer fun inside!
USA Independence Day
This month we have been celebrating the US 4th July Independence Day.
We have enjoyed sampling some American treats including our own homemade milkshakes!
We also tried our hand at our version of 'beer pong' - which became quite competitive at times!
Residents and staff also had great fun with some of our photo props!
Game, set and match
During the month of July, we have been celebrating the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament.
We have dusted off our rackets and polished our forehands to enlist in some healthy competition!
As well as playing some tennis we have also tested our knowledge with some tennis themed quizzes and word games.
Of course, it would not be Wimbledon without some strawberries and cream either!
We have all had a great time!
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.
