OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OUR FOUNDER & CEO Declan Harrigan
ND BSC (HONS) PGDIP
Declan began his career in corporate sales while studying Social Policy and Sociology at Magee, University of Ulster. After University and spending an additional 4 years training as a therapist he now has experience in supporting and counselling young people for over 10 years both in the North of Ireland and since 2012 in West Lothian, Scotland.
His experience in counselling began in the North of Ireland where he worked specifically with those people affected by self-harm or suicidal thoughts / ideation. However, in addition to this work he has also worked with issues such as bullying, sexual orientation, depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship issues, abuse or post Northern Ireland conflict prisoners affected by PTSD to name but a few.
Declan worked extensively on anti-sectarianism projects with the young people involved using various counselling approaches in groups to help change their negative thinking about each other and encourage them to look at the similarities instead of the very minimal differences.
He then moved to Scotland in 2012 where he took up the position as a project co-ordinator working with similar groups and co-ordinating a youth unemployment strategy while supporting these young people to address their barriers and re-engaging positively into their community again.
Declan is married and has a young son. He says that “my wife and son are the driving force behind the work that I do. I love my job and being a part of the S.M.I.L.E Team is more than just a job, it’s like a family. We are all passionate about delivering the best service we can for the children and young people of West Lothian and hope to be an integral part of the community work for many years to come”.
Chairperson
Mairi first joined S.M.I.L.E. in January 2019 as a Counselling Psychologist in Training, and later as a COSCA Trainer. Her commitment to children and young people’s wellbeing, the charitable sector, and the remarkable work of S.M.I.L.E. led her back as a Trustee in May 2023. She brings to the board over 15 years’ professional experience within mental health services.
Mairi has worked as a mental health clinician since 2007, in both statutory and third sector roles, across a number of specialities and age groups. She has held various office-bearer positions in professional roles and within her local community.
Mairi is married with two young children and two lively dogs.
Secretary
Treasurer
Advertising & Marketing
Andrew has worked in marketing & communications for over 15 years and is passionate about good communication and robust strategy. He brings an analytical and creative lens to the Board, whilst taking a collaborative and knowledge-sharing approach.
He’s an advocate of increasing access and capacity in mental health services, having seen first-hand what a lack of services can mean. Andrew’s skills and experience will bring a growth mindset that’s rooted in putting our service users and their families first.
In his spare time, Andrew is a big believer in exercise and movement to help keep body and mind healthy. He also loves a solo adventure to explore new holiday destinations and take time away from the fast pace of modern life. When not doing that, he loves to read and explore anything architecture or design related.
HR & Recruitment
Clients & Families Representative
Elaine has worked within the Education Sector for 16 years and spent 9 years with the NHS before retiring in March 2025.
She feels very honoured to have been invited to join the Board of Trustees at S.M.I.L.E Counselling and hopes to contribute positively in her capacity as a parent of a past Service User.
Elaine has taken the opportunity to further her learning by completing some of the courses provided by S.M.I.L.E, and she looks forward to continuing this journey in the future.
A proud mum of four and grandmother to three beautiful little girls, Elaine leads a very busy and fulfilling family life.
In her spare time, she enjoys going to the gym, listening to her favourite band Coldplay, reading, and walking her dog, Hope.
Elaine is also actively involved in fundraising activities to support S.M.I.L.E Counselling and help ensure the continuation of this much-needed service for young people across West Lothian.
Training & Development
Scott is born and bred in West Lothian, he recently completed his Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with ACT Counselling services in Glasgow. He has a background in Teaching having completed a Diploma in Training, Learning and Assessment through Napier University and a BA in Teaching (TQFE) from the University of Stirling. Scott regularly lectures in Colleges and Universities and is a trained SCQF credit rating cadre member. He has a wealth of experience in managing projects and is a qualified PRINCE2 Practitioner.
With grown-up children, Scott has a true perception of the challenges young people face in negotiating life. He feels it important to remove the stigma and normalise the conversation to promote good mental health and wellbeing.
In his working capacity, Scott has a love for teaching; developing and delivering training to various agencies including the Scottish Government, Scottish Prison Service and Police Scotland. He is passionate in raising awareness of Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences and recognises the importance helping relationships play in determining desirable destinations for those affected.
Scott works closely with young people and adults within and outwith the justice system. It was here he witnessed first-hand the power of talking therapy in transforming lives to provide positive pathways for recipients. He feels very fortunate to be a member of the S.M.I.L.E. family offering an essential service to the young people of West Lothian.
Scott enjoys playing golf, five-a-side football (both badly), poetry and public speaking. His favourite holidays are in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife and family.
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