Find out more about some of the people helping us to be the best we can!
“I love the variety, no two days are the same!”
I joined FDAMH in January 2020 as Operations Manager and was appointed into the role of CEO in April 2021.
My role has 3 key components:
1) Support and develop our amazing team of staff and volunteers.
2) Work closely with our Board to drive our strategic plans and…
3) Work closely with external colleagues and partners to ensure that FDAMH plays a key part in providing collaborative, evidence-based mental health services in Falkirk.
I love the variety, no two days are the same! We have a fantastic team at FDAMH and I enjoy seeing our staff progress and develop within the organisation.
Making a positive difference and seeing how the work of FDAMH helps improve people’s lives.
Usually a strong coffee and the need to make a positive start to a busy day!
“Seeing the impact that the right support, at the right time, can have on someone’s mental health and wellbeing is incredibly rewarding.”
I joined FDAMH in October 2020.
I am currently the Head of Services, overseeing the development, delivery, and quality of a range of mental health services that support individuals and families across our communities. My role involves leading a team of practitioners, ensuring our services are safe, effective, and person-centred, while working with partners to continually improve the support we provide.
I began my journey with the organisation as a practitioner, working directly with people experiencing mental health challenges. That frontline experience gave me a strong understanding of the issues individuals and families face and the importance of compassionate, relationship-based support. Over time I progressed into leadership roles, helping to shape and develop services while keeping the needs of the people we support at the heart of everything we do.
I am particularly passionate about creating inclusive services that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, and help people build confidence, connections, and resilience.
What I enjoy most about working at FDAMH is the opportunity to make a genuine difference in people’s lives. Seeing the impact that the right support, at the right time, can have on someone’s mental health and wellbeing is incredibly rewarding.
I also really value the people I work with. FDAMH has a passionate and dedicated team who care deeply about the individuals and families we support, and there is a strong sense of collaboration across the organisation.
I am most inspired by the resilience of the people we support. Many come to our services during very challenging times, and seeing them rebuild confidence, reconnect with others, and move forward with the right support is incredibly powerful.
I’m also inspired by the dedication and compassion of the staff and volunteers I work alongside, who are committed to supporting people with understanding and without judgement. Together, we work to create supportive, inclusive environments where people feel valued and understood.
Being able to help develop services that respond to the needs of our communities is also very motivating. I truly believe that with the right support and opportunities, people can overcome challenges and build more connected, fulfilling lives.
What gets me out of bed in the morning is knowing that the work we do can genuinely make a difference in people’s lives. Supporting individuals who are experiencing mental health challenges, loneliness, or difficult life circumstances gives a real sense of purpose.
Even small steps forward can have a lasting impact, and seeing people rebuild confidence, connect with others, and feel more hopeful is incredibly rewarding.
“I love the uniqueness of what we do. We aren’t a one size fits all organisation; we tailor our services to meet the needs of the people who come to us.”
I joined in December 2013.
Most of what I do is behind the scenes as I oversee and support the staff who work in the “back office” areas of FDAMH such as, admin, marketing, IT and our Training Academy. I’m also responsible for facilities, utilities, HR and recruitment.
I love the uniqueness of what we do. We aren’t a one size fits all organisation; we tailor our services to meet the needs of the people who come to us and continually look at ways to change or improve what we do.
Being part of an organisation that delivers something I am passionate about and ensuring we provide the best possible experience for our clients and our staff. Learning, kindness, hard work and being around positive people also inspires me. Music and holidays also feature highly on my list.
I love the opportunities and challenges that each new day brings. I do believe that every day you get the chance to learn something new. In terms of work, I thoroughly enjoy what I do, it’s knowing that everything we do will help others.
“Our life is what our thoughts make it” – Marcus Aurelias
I studied Management and Business Law at university and joined the commercial sector initially after graduation, but realised my skills and ambition is better suited to roles that have a positive societal impact.
Over the course of my career I have worked in a number of roles that allowed me to directly help the most vulnerable members of our society access services they need. These have included Disability Employment Advisor, Housing Officer and Job Education and Training.
Most recently I have worked in the public sector, currently as a Head of Corporate Services for a children’s rights organisation. I love working with others, building culture and making improvements to processes.
I am passionate about reducing stigma and have noticed that while we have come a long way normalising depression and anxiety, there is a greater journey in reducing assumptions around illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD, for example.
I joined FDAMH keen to be involved in services that have positive impacts on those who are struggling with their mental health. I have an interest in governance and the running of organisations and felt FDAMH was a perfect fit for me.
I am a people person who is most emboldened by seeing and feeling connection, kindness and positivity. I have always loved helping others. I would like to be the type of person who makes others feel more seen and heard.
I believe music is my therapy. I can adjust my mindset, and sometimes my mood, by spending a few hours in the forest with my family and dogs. I also enjoy aromatherapy and meditation.
“Strength lies in differences, not similarities” – Steven R Covey
With 30 years leadership experience across multiple industries, I specialise in Service Operations Management, Business Process Management, and Employee Experience. Now as an independent consultant I help organisations streamline operations, enhance customer experience and create people-centred workplaces.
I’ve wanted to give back to the community, and the areas closest to my heart were Mental Health and Child Welfare and when I learnt more about FDAMH and the incredible work they do, I knew I wanted to be part of the team. I am excited to contribute to the next phase in their journey.
I am driven by a belief in inclusive leadership and creating people centred workplaces, where individuals can flourish and grow. When people feel valued and empowered, everyone wins.
I love the outdoors walking with my family and 2 dogs, we also enjoy exploring new places in our campervan.
I prioritise quiet, reflective time. You’ll often find me in a quiet spot with my ear pods in listening to podcasts, reading, or just thinking. Taking time for myself is important to me.
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you” – Walt Whitman
I have 38 years of experience in rugby clubs and teams. From a player, coach and vice president. Working for the clubs on fundraising, social enterprise and commercial development. For Employment I have worked for a large fuel distribution company. Started as a fuel salesman and over time becoming head of domestic sales. Working with all types of customers but delivering a working framework for elderly and vulnerable customers. Currently working for a Agriculture wholesalers as a branch manager.
Within my own family and work experience I have seen 1st hand what good environments can do for people. I hope to be able to help do my part in my community and for the future for all.
I think by spending most of my life in rugby clubs and teams, it has given me insight in my different people, lifestyles and relationships. Working in a group together in a common goal for the club as whole has given me a sense of community and a social connection.
I love to take my two golden retrievers for a long walk in the Scottish hills or beach’s. I can also be found at the side of a rugby pitch supporting my 2 sons in their rugby careers.
“There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in” – Leonard Cohen
I have spent over 20 years working in Human Resources, supporting individuals and organisations through change, leadership development, and culture transformation. In recent years, I have run my own Leadership and Coaching company, working across different sectors and countries. Through this work, I’ve gained invaluable insights into myself, human behaviour, motivation, and resilience, which I hope to bring to my role as a board member.
I am passionate about supporting mental health and well-being, both in workplaces and in wider communities. I’ve seen firsthand how leadership, culture, and environment can impact people’s mental health, and I want to contribute my experience to help shape meaningful change. Joining the Board is an opportunity to give back and to continue to learn from others.
I’m inspired by people—those who show kindness, and a willingness to grow despite challenges. I also draw inspiration from great conversations, books, and moments of reflection, where new ideas and perspectives emerge.
I prioritise self-care by creating time for reflection, practicing Qigong (very much a beginner!) and surrounding myself with supportive people. I also practice meditation and ensure I balance work, rest and play, recognising that we all have good days and bad days.
“While I’m alive, I’ll make tiny changes to Earth” – Frightened Rabbit lyric
I am an Associate of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and have worked in the pensions industry for the past 25 years providing advice to clients in regard to occupational pension schemes. I also have previous experience of working in the hospitality industry. I’ve held a number of senior management roles and currently have operational responsibilities covering people management, recruitment and retention, processes, risk management and governance. I particularly enjoy the risk management part of my job, but I also really like working with people and supporting colleagues in their career development.
A combination of things. I have a keen interest in mental health, having been involved in my employer’s Mental Health & Wellbeing Committee and acted as a Mental Health First Aider, and I was generally looking to volunteer for a charity. Joining the Board of an organisation that does excellent work in Mental Health was an ideal opportunity and I hope to add value from my working experience and skillset.
From learning new things and challenging myself. And I get a lot of inspiration from the people around me – my family and work colleagues – and their diverse thoughts and positive actions. I aim to support them as much as I can.
Generally by “self care” and taking time out for myself, whether that’s walking my dog, listening to music, reading a book or using mindfulness. I also try and exercise regularly – I tend to feel better mentally when I feel good physically.
Joined January 2025
“My favourite quote is FDAMH’s motto: Light in a Dark Place”
Before I retired, I was MP then MSP for Falkirk West. My skills include public speaking, advocacy, media interviews.
I was invited to be Patron of FDAMH. I was pleased and honoured to accept because I admire the work FDAMH does to provide services to people with mental health issues.
I have experienced mental health problems in my family. My favourite quote is FDAMH’s motto : Light in a dark place “.
Regular exercise. Prayer.
PATRON SINCE 2010
Alan grew up in Hallglen, Falkirk and is a celebrated author and performer. Although Alan’s work takes him all over the world at times, he maintains strong links with Falkirk and helps to raise FDAMH’s profile whenever he can. In addition our creative groups have been very fortunate to benefit from his expertise on a number of occasions.
