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
Charity Cook Off
Staff and residents are celebrating because their wonderful Managing Director, Fiona Fagan, from Barchester’s North East and Scotland Division, has stepped completely out of her comfort zone to compete in the Barchester Charitable Foundation Cook Off 2024.
Fiona went head-to-head with the Managing Directors from Barchester’s four other divisions and cooked up a storm to raise a phenomenal £24,595 for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation which helps connect vulnerable people and those living with a disability to community groups in their local area by providing grants to improve mobility and quality of life. Each year the Foundation distributes thousands of pounds to individuals, small community groups and charities across England, Scotland and Wales.
Eden Project
Residents across our homes had a fantastic time exploring the Eden Project virtually - an educational charity and visitor attraction based in Cornwall, featuring sprawling outdoor gardens and breathtaking biomes that house the largest indoor rainforest in the world.
During the session, residents who joined were reconnected with nature through their senses, memories and stories. A big thank you to the community team at the Eden Project for the wonderful event.
Football Fever
We have had great fun during the month of June getting into the spirit of the Euros Football tournament. We decked the home out with flags, signs and bunting and had our Jimmy hats at the ready! We also completed a resident sweepie with prizes for different categories. There has been great excitement as we gathered with snacks and refreshments to watch the matches and cheer on Scotland!
National Cream Tea Day
We have recently celebrated National Cream Tea Day.
We thought the best way to do that was to enjoy some lovely scones with cream and jam - all washed down with a lovely cup of tea!
Everyone said it was a lovely treat and we also got into some interesting discussions about what should go on your scone first - the cream or the jam?!? How do you eat yours????
We also had a go at an afternoon tea themed quiz.
Donkey Visit
During the month of June, we have had some special visitors at Kirkburn and they were of the big eared variety!
Our residents, staff and visitors had great fun meeting Pugh and Barney the donkeys!
The sun came out just in time for us to gather outside and greet our guests! We learned some fun facts about the donkeys and all their likes and dislikes. They were able to do some window visits too and got lots of waves!
A huge thank you to Jenny's Donkeys from Inverurie for coming to visit us!
A fond farewell after 16-years
Our lovely carer, Phyllis, has retired after 16 years of working at Kirkburn. Phyllis was surprised by staff and residents with decorations and a party - on what proved to be an emotional occasion!
Phyllis was presented with gifts and cards as well as being serenaded with her own version of the song 'My Way.' It was a great celebration for someone who has been a very valued member of the Kirkburn team for many years.
We wish you all the best in your retirement Phyllis (not that we believe for a second that you will slow down!)
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.
