A period of poor mental health inspired a Perthshire dad to set up his own fire safety business.
Alan McHattie, who is a survivor of child abuse, found himself out of work last year after reaching his lowest ever point.
But the 45-year-old from Stanley, who suffers from PTSD, is now hopeful for the future after founding Fire Arm Fire Protection Ltd.
After more than a decade working as a fire safety warden for other firms, going it alone meant he could be more in control of his own diary – and health.
Fire Arm Fire Protection at Game Fair
Alan has already secured high profile contracts across Scotland, including Kelpies Live music festival earlier this month and next week’s Scottish Game Fair at Scone Palace.
He recently employed his first member of staff, marketing executive Emily McMillan, and hopes to grow the team further in the near future.
Alan is particularly keen to take on individuals who also suffer from PTSD, as he understands the struggles they can face in employment.
The father-of-two received support from charity Enable to get back on his feet and hopes to pay it forward by partnering with charities, including Combat Stress.
Alan said: “I am proud of how far I have come since last year, when I could see no future for myself and took an overdose.
“When I was at my worst, I struggled to leave my room for weeks at a time.
“I now have a real sense of purpose and drive and enjoy what I am doing.
“Working at big events like Kelpies Live and the Scottish Game Fair is just amazing.”
Fire Arm offers a range of services to clients, including fire risk assessments, an on-site event fire warden, site safety checks, fire training and fire extinguisher provision.
How charity helped him regain confidence
Alan credits Enable Works, which assists people who are facing barriers to employment, with giving him his confidence back.
Enable Works director Ashley Ryan said: “Alan’s journey to building his own business is a testament to both his dedication and the work of our team.
“Enable Works aims to support and empower people and businesses. Helping people achieve their ambitions is at the heart of what we do.
“Inclusive support benefits people, businesses, and entire communities.”
Alan, who started his working career as a postman, was also given a Skills Passport Grant by Perth and Kinross Council to undertake vocational training and enrolled in a fire risk assessment course.
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