Muirhouse Housing Association has thrown its support behind a new “dementia-friendly” film club which involves the magic of the silver screen.

It is being led by Community Link, based at North Edinburgh Arts Centre, who approached the association for funding from its Community Chest Fund to help the film project and promote the club locally.

The first screening takes place today following a consultation led by Community Link. It found a clear need emerged for a dementia-friendly film club which creates a welcoming, inclusive space where people with dementia and their carers or family members can enjoy a film screening together and connect with others.

The project is launching at the North Edinburgh Arts Centre in a purpose-built 96-seater theatre with the showing of the 1969 classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The free screening is further evidence of Muirhouse’s deep-rooted engagement with the community it serves in north Edinburgh.

Muirhouse’s Community Chest Fund is available for community groups to apply for a grant to carry out projects which benefit tenants and the local community.

Special measures will be taken during the film to meet the needs of people with dementia such as dimmed – but not entirely dark – lighting to reduce anxiety and prevent confusion. 

The cinema will not be entirely filled to avoid the presence of a large crowd. There will also be a short interval with light refreshments served.

Based loosely on fact, the film tells the story of two wild west outlaws who are on the run from a crack US law enforcement posse after a string of train robberies.

The film, starring two Hollywood idols – played by the late Paul Newman and sidekick Robert Redford – was an instant hit when it was released and remains a screen classic.

Susan Bell, chief executive of Muirhouse Housing Association, said: “Everyone likes a trip to the cinema. So we were delighted to link up with North Edinburgh Arts Centre to deliver this dementia-friendly screening in what is a first from Muirhouse.

“Dementia-friendly screenings are now expected to take place every month. We are thrilled to be supporting such an innovative way to engage members of the community.

“Apart from these dementia-friendly screenings the advent of a cinema in our community, when previously the nearest one is 3.5 miles away, is to be greatly welcomed.”