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
Gentlemen's Outing
Some of our lovely gents have recently enjoyed a wee trip out for lunch. We headed to the Dolphin Cafe and enjoyed some delicious fish and chips. The food was a massive hit and there was not a chip left in sight! It was thumbs up all round!
Afterwards we had a wee run around the harbour and admired all the different boats. A lovely afternoon was had by all.
We have planned to go back in the summer and hopefully enjoy our fish suppers outside! But you never can tell with Peterhead weather!
The Kirkburn National
In honour of this year's Grand National, we decided to take part in some 'horse racing' of our own! Our DIY track and horses were just the ticket, along with our trusty dice!
Of course, the 'posh' hats were also brought out for the occasion! Great fun ensued as residents and staff competed in races - and it did at times get very competitive! Well done to everyone!
Come sing!
Residents across our homes and hospitals had a fantastic time with vocal coach Dan Cooper from Biiah as he led an amazing sing-a-long session for residents to enjoy.
Residents who joined the event were able to learn different techniques as they sang the famous ‘I Can See Clearly Now’ by Jimmy Cliff and ‘Here Comes the Sun’ by The Beatles.
Across our homes there were smiles and laugher all around. The session was such a success and was great for the mind, body and soul.
Inside the Factory
We had a brilliant time across our services with Harrogate Skills 4 Living as they took us on a wonderful virtual visit to their Harrogate Chocolate Factory.
Residents were thrilled to discover details about the chocolate-making process and the fascinating journey from bean to bar, all while enjoying some delicious sweet treats.
The Factory aims to employ people with learning disabilities and autism, involving them in all parts of the process, from sorting and roasting the beans to packaging and sales. The experience was truly enjoyed by all who joined this event.
Beat the Clock
We continue to celebrate a varied life enrichment programme and across our services we linked up with other Barchester care homes and hospitals up and down the country for some interactive Beat the Clock games.
Our residents truly enjoyed solving word puzzles, conundrums and mathematical problems as part of Barchester’s very own game show series.
Everyone who joined had a fantastic time and enjoyed some friendly competition.
Bus Outing
Some of our residents have recently enjoyed a wee trip out for their afternoon fly cup. We received a warm welcome at the Mission Cafe in Peterhead and enjoyed a cuppa with some lovely fine pieces.
We also enjoyed having a look at some of their old photos of Peterhead, which allowed us to reminisce about some old places and faces of the local area.
It was great to venture out and about and we would like to say a huge thanks to Joan at the Mission Cafe for taking great care of us.
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.
