
Dates-n-Mates Directors



Dates-n-Mates Scotland National Director:
John Paul Moffat
What I love about being part of Dates-n-Mates is telling the history, representing them at award ceremonies and conferences but most importantly seeing our Dates-n-Mates members connect with each other and giving them the confidence to strive in life.
My tasks can be varied, as I may be asked to help my colleagues in the different areas from attending events or doing an information stand or presentation. Or being interviewed about Dates-n-Mates Scotland for news articles and press.
Glasgow & Renfrewshire Director:
Andrew McCartney
I’ve been a Director since 2018.
My favourite thing to do in Dates-n-Mates is being a host and compere for some of the events. One of my regular tasks is interacting with members of Dates-n-Mates, which I like doing.
The Dates-n-Mates Direct podcast was an idea I had to let everyone know what’s going on, share our thoughts and let our members get even more involved with the project.
Aberdeen Director: Sarah Paterson
I have been the director of Dates-n-Mates Aberdeen since 2015.
I enjoy having a laugh and chatting with the members.
I create presentations and workshops. I like to help members with ways to overcome their stress and anxiety (especially after lockdown).
I enjoy being part of an amazing team where I have an opportunity to suggest ideas that would be good for our members and the project.
Falkirk Director: John Clarke
I have been a Director of Dates-n-mates Falkirk since 2020. I was a member then the job of Director came up.
The biggest thing I’ve enjoyed for me is getting to use zoom and meeting new people from different Dates-n-Mates branches during lockdown.
I help to organise and attend the activities Dates-n-Mates host for members.
Dates-n-Mates Direct Podcast
Friendly conversations with direct experiences and opinions from people with learning disabilities brought to you by Dates-n-Mates Directors.
Co-Hosted by Andrew, John Paul, Sarah, John and Holly. Each episode is entirely led by people with a learning disability to share their views and experiences in their own way.
Director News & Stories
From the Blog



Director Views: John discusses relationships and working with Dates-n-Mates Falkirk
John Clarke became the new Dates-n-Mates Falkirk Director at the end of 2020. He has shared his thoughts on this new role with us and his experiences with meeting new […]
Continue reading "Director Views: John discusses relationships and working with Dates-n-Mates Falkirk" →


Director Tips: How to cope during the COVID-19 crisis
Hello, it is Sarah here. Hope everyone is keeping well. I know this is a very difficult time for us and it is a very chaotic time, especially when it’s […]
Continue reading "Director Tips: How to cope during the COVID-19 crisis" →


Sarah’s Autism Awareness Interview
The 2nd of April is Autism Awareness Day 2020 so Dates-n-Mates Aberdeen Director, Sarah is chatting with us about her thoughts on her own Autism. How long has it been […]
Continue reading "Sarah’s Autism Awareness Interview" →