Dates-n-Mates Directors have a lived experience of learning disability and influence the direction of the organisation.
Dates-n-Mates Scotland National Director:
John Paul Moffat
I have been one of the Dates-n-Mates Scotland Directors for 15 years (since 2008), firstly as one of the Glasgow Directors before becoming the National Director.
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.
Aberdeen Director: Katrina Duncan
I have been a Dates-n-Mates member since 2021 and became Director in July 2023.
I am excited to get involved and work with the rest of the team.
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
John Paul celebrates 15 years working with Dates-n-Mates
Previous Next Happy 15th work anniversary, John Paul! Dates-n-Mates began in Glasgow in 2008 to support love and friendship for adults with a learning disability. John Paul Moffat was recruited […]
Continue reading "John Paul celebrates 15 years working with Dates-n-Mates"
Directors Perspective (part 2) – Autism Acceptance Week
A post written by Dates-n-Mates Aberdeen Director – Sarah Paterson Discrimination I have unfortunately been in situations where I’ve literally had people tell me that I “don’t look disabled enough”, […]
Continue reading "Directors Perspective (part 2) – Autism Acceptance Week"
Director’s Perspective (part 1) – Autism Acceptance Week
A post written by Dates-n-Mates Aberdeen Director – Sarah Paterson My experience living with Autism I was diagnosed with autism at aged 3. I’m grateful and thankful to have received […]
Continue reading "Director’s Perspective (part 1) – Autism Acceptance Week"