The Scottish Government minister for sport, health improvement and mental health has opened a new care facility for older people in Edinburgh.

Jamie Hepburn MSP joined Viewpoint chairman Rob Rae and chief executive Dorry McLaughlin at the opening of Viewpoint’s new Cunningham House development, which provides extra rooms for the existing St Raphael’s care home.

Viewpoint is working in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council and NHS Lothian to allow people in hospital beds in other parts of the city to relocate to the new facility in the Grange, where Viewpoint nursing staff are specially trained in dementia care.

Cunningham House, built around 1878, was formerly part of Viewpoint’s head office and is Category B listed.

The building was redesigned using design standards for people with dementia, as promoted by Stirling University, and upgraded to take advantage of new boilers with reduced emissions and energy-efficient lighting with anti-glare and dimmer action.

Viewpoint said the primary purpose of the facility is to provide skilled nursing care and supportive accommodation for people living with dementia.

Residents can join in activities taking place in Cunningham House each day and will also have access to a Craft Café, a bar, concerts, Viewpoint Voices, the local singing group, hairdressing facilities and minibus outings.