Who We Are

Your Care… Your Choice… Our Staff…

Our Staff

VIOLET KEENAN

I have been active in the care sector since 2004 being involved in the rollout of the training to Local Authorities regarding the implementation of Self Direct Support. I am keen to ensure that the rights enshrined within the legislation, that have been a long time in the making, are…

PAUL BARROWMAN

For the last 16 years, I have been involved in Welfare Rights and benefits with various charities and local authorities, advising on entitlement, assisting with claims and appeal representation, gaining various welfare rights related certification. Through this, a greater understanding of other issues and legislation has been gained and eventually…

Mel Ryan

I believe in the transformative impact of knowledge and how it empowers individuals. At SDS Forth Valley, my role is to ensure everyone understands Self-Directed Support and the available options, so they can advocate effectively for themselves and their loved ones. I hold a BA (Hons) in English and Journalism,…

Leeanne Darien

Before joining SDS Forth Valley, I spent four and a half years in the Health and Wellbeing field, supporting people with various long-term health conditions and challenging life situations. In recent years, I specifically worked with young people and their families, helping them navigate the transition from child to adult…

Board of Directors

STEPHEN OLIVER

I’ve been on the Board since 2018. My interest in SDS is born out of the wish to provide my son, who has learning disabilities, with a fulfilling life where his support can change as he grows. As a commercial manager within major healthcare companies, I have experience of working…

Linda Riley

I use Self Directed Support. As a disabled person with 35 years working in the care field my purpose for being on the Board is to try to change things for everyone. There is often a rift between management and professional people who don’t really get the real story from…

Emma Bowen

Over 11 years’ experience of working within local government in Adult, Child and Social care. I was a voluntary Citizens Advice adviser for over 5 Years within Stirling. I’ve gained over 11 years’ experience working as a Personal Assistant. I’m a mother with a son with Asperger, ADHD and on…

Gillian Sherlock

My name is Gillian Sherlock I am very much interested in social care as a user. The reason I wanted to join the board of SDS & ILF Forth Valley was to help make a difference in helping people to make a choice regarding their care package as it can…

Craig Townsend

I have experience in volunteering with Forth Valley Flyers (coaching disabled athletes) and also with the RVS (meeting and talking to dementia patients in hospital). This gave me an insight on how to communicate with people with varying abilities and conditions and the need to be clear when dealing with…

Iain Wilson

I have worked in Social Care and Social Work for over 30 years and am a Qualified Social Worker. I currently work as the SDS Manager for the ILF Scotland Transition Fund. My wife and I are also specialist foster carers, working with children and young people with complex needs.…

DEREK MACKINTOSH

My interest in SDS Forth Valley stems from having experienced their valuable support first hand when supporting a family member with their support package. I understand the anxieties families have when going through the assessment process and have learned that knowledge is power in these situations. My driving force in…

Want to learn more?

If you want to learn more about our charity and perhaps get involved, please contact Stephen Oliver stephen@sdsforthvalley.org or send an email to info@sdsforthvalley.org