On the 11th of February 2008, it was a typical early spring morning when Alan McCreadie arrived at VAMW Care (as Potential Living was previously known) to begin his first shift as a support worker. Alan thrived in this role and quickly became a firm favourite with everyone he met. His natural smile, positive outlook, and attitude that nothing was ever too much trouble ensured he became both well known and deeply respected.
Becoming a Founding Member of ROC
In July 2011, a major development took place within Potential Living with the launch of our Response On-Call (ROC) Service, and Alan joined the team as one of its founding members. His dedication and commitment in this role further strengthened his reputation as someone who could always be relied upon, particularly in times of crisis.
From Support to Maintenance
In May 2016, a vacancy in the maintenance team saw Alan’s role evolve once again. He transitioned from a full-time support worker to a full-time maintenance worker while continuing to contribute to the ROC team. This new combined role allowed Alan to spend more time outdoors, taking on both maintenance tasks and gardening, which is a personal passion of his.
Sharing Skills and Growing Community Connections
This change also gave Alan the opportunity to stay connected to direct support work by mentoring our volunteers and focus people. He shared his love of gardening and the outdoors with great enthusiasm, and soon became well known in the local community. His gardening expertise, greenhouse-grown plants, and handmade Christmas wreaths became both admired and highly sought after.
Spreading Joy All Year Round
Alan has always been “up for a bit of fun” and happily took on the role of Santa each December, delivering gifts to our focus people at home. He also visited a local care home to spread some festive cheer. More recently, Alan became our Easter Bunny, ensuring that everyone who attended our clubs received an Easter treat in person.
Happy Retirement!
Alan’s recent retirement has left a significant gap at Potential Living. He has promised to remain a regular visitor, and we are truly looking forward to seeing him again soon. Alan, we will all miss you. Enjoy your well-earned retirement, and please don’t be a stranger.
