Edinburgh care home residents show off hidden talents

A care home in Edinburgh has rolled out the red carpet for residents to take centre stage for a showstopping talent event.

The team at Care UK’s Cairdean House brought together residents and the Colinton community for an afternoon of entertainment as the home hosted its much-anticipated talent show. 

Back for the sixth year running, ‘Cairdean’s Got Talent’ was judged by residents Morna Morrison and Moira Anderson alongside the home’s lifestyle lead, Claire Carson.

From renditions of popular songs to dance routines and poetry readings, the show featured seven performances from residents and team members – with many showcasing their talents for the very first time.

Following a heartwarming afternoon of song and dance, the lucky winners were announced as gymnast Sienna, followed by pianist Natsumi and singer Nkosi in second and third spot respectively.

Resident William Greer, 75, said: "I thoroughly enjoyed sharing the words from my favourite band The Beatles. It meant so much that my daughter accompanied me, and I wasn't nervous, more excited to share it with her!"

Angela Burns, Home Manager at the Redford Road care home, added: “It was an absolute pleasure holding Cairdean’s Got Talent for the sixth year running. Watching residents reconnect with past hobbies and share their talents with the team and local community put a smile on all of our faces.

“It was such a lively and exciting afternoon bringing everyone together for the talent showcase. The event forms part of our ongoing commitment to promoting engaging, resident‑led activities such as arts, crafts and music, which have been shown to boost creativity and wellbeing.

“A huge congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who joined us. Roll on next year!”

Cairdean House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, including a café, cinema and hair and beauty salon. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.