As an experienced activities coordinator, Pauline Kirton knows exactly what is needed to engage residents at Longlands in meaningful and stimulating activities, and it begins with a simple chat.
She explains: “I like to get to know the residents before I plan any activities because it is important that we do things which match their hobbies or interests.
“We need to create a rapport with them and really get to know them so we can tailor activities around them and which we know they will enjoy.”
Pauline did various other jobs before she started working in care but prior to coming to Longlands she was the activity coordinator at a care group which operated five homes.
Helping to run a youth club in her spare time made the transition easier because she was already used to devising activities.
And working with fellow Longlands activity coordinator Joanne Wales, Pauline has radically overhauled the activity programme, introducing new and varied things for residents to do. These include prayer sessions, quizzes, and a German-inspired Oktoberfest afternoon.
Pauline says: “I have been to Munich for Oktoberfest, so we recreated the experience for residents.
“Joanne and I dressed up as beer maids, we had steins of shandy, German snacks and we decorated the room with German flags.
“It was something very different, but the residents really enjoyed it.
“I left my previous job as an activity coordinator so when I came to Longlands it could have been a case of out of the frying pan and into the fire, but I love what I am doing with a passion and it gives me great satisfaction so I definitely made the right decision coming here.”
