Organisation brings hundreds of people together
Chart-topping singer songwriter, Callum Beattie, recorded a special video message of support for a group of people accessing care in Scotland, to celebrate their artistic achievements as part of a unique arts group – The Creativity Club.
Delivered by one of Scotland’s biggest social care charities, Community Integrated Care, The Creativity Club was established earlier this year, in partnership with National Museums Scotland for the Year of Stories 2022 Festival.
Since then, it has provided a range of free accessible arts lessons and interactive expert workshops for people who access care and support, including experiences with stars of the Edinburgh Fringe, masterclasses with acclaimed Scottish poets, and hit songwriters.
Meeting once a week virtually, the club has brought hundreds of people together from Aberdeen to Duns. Inspiring them to explore Scotland’s places, myths and heroes, and enabling every participant to create their own work, it has promoted self-expression, confidence and friendships.
The group gathered to celebrate their achievements in a final showcase of their efforts on St Andrew’s Day. Performing to a packed audience of supported and expert mentors, including the hit-songwriter Jim Duguid, who has created songs with the likes of Paolo Nutini and Alex Clare, the group were celebrated for their original works and dedicated efforts.
The performance culminated in a special surprise video message of encouragement from Callum, who topped the Scottish Album Charts with his album People Like Us.
Beattie said, “Hello Creativity Club! The work that you’re all doing sounds amazing and I wish I was there to see you... Best of luck and keep being awesome!”
John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, said, “It was fantastic to see The Creativity Club come together and celebrate their achievements as part of Year of Stories 2022 Festival. From attending exclusive workshops, learning new skills, and collaborating to create amazing pieces of creative work, the group have learnt so much and taken part in something really special which they may not have had access to before.”
He continued: “Callum’s message was such a surprise for the group. They were blown away to receive praise and encouragement from someone so successful in the music industry, and truly inspired by his support. Our thanks go to Callum for taking the time to champion The Creativity Club, and to National Museums Scotland for enabling us to bring the Year of Stories 2022 into the lives of people who access care and support.”
Jack, a Creativity Club member from the Scottish borders, said: “I have really enjoyed being part of The Creativity Club and learning lots of new things. It was amazing to hear from Callum during our celebration, it made me feel really proud to be Scottish and being a member of such an amazing Club.”
