After studying Theology and English Literature, Alan went on to work in the field of social care for 14 years. He started out in Oberstown Boys School, a detention centre for young offenders, before moving on to working in open care. It was while working in Dun na nOg in Drumcondra that he first encountered Debbie Somorin. Alan was instrumental in redesigning the service to help support Debbie and they have remained close to this day. Alan left social care shortly afterwards to pursue a career in the arts. He is an actor, writer and filmmaker who has had his films shown at festivals both here in Ireland and across the world.