Andrew Scadding RIP

We're very sad to announce the death on 23 January of Andrew Scadding, former Chief Executive Officer, of the Thai Children's Trust, (today known as Safe Child Thailand.)

During Andrew's 17 years as CEO, his dedication and enthusiasm for the work founded by Redemptorist Father Ray Brennan, (CSsR) allowed the projects to grow and in turn support more underprivileged children and young people and students with disabilities.

With Andrew as CEO, not only did the London based charity support Fr Ray's work in Pattaya, it also supported Father Mike Shea CSsR, and his wonderful work at Sarnelli House in Nong Khai, the Good Shepherd Sisters projects in Nong Khai , and children living with HIV and AIDS at the Camillian Centre in Rayong.

Following the tsunami that hit southern Thailand in December 2004, he was quick to support Baan Than Namjai, a new project in Kao Lak, providing safety and a home to children who had been orphaned by the tsunami.

Andrew also initiated projects in Mae Sot, near the border with Myanmar, providing funding for schools for children of migrant workers, as well as providing food for children living in the Umpium refugee camp. Support was also given to Dr Cynthia Maung at the Mae Sot clinic, where many soon to be mothers arrived from across the border to give birth in safety.

In southern Thailand, lunch farms were set up at local schools, where the children grew organic vegetables and were guaranteed at least one hot nutritious meal a day.

It did not matter to Andrew if the people receiving the support were Catholics, Buddhists or Muslims, all he wanted was to see that the children and young people were living a safe and happy life.

Apart from supporting projects in Thailand, Andrew was also Secretary of the Anglo-Thai Society and a Trustee of Child Rescue Nepal. I will remember Andrew with fondness, as someone whose dedication and hard work helped improve the lives of thousands.

Andrew was the beloved husband of the late Sally (Nee. Richardson). He is survived by his son Hamish, daughter Alice and grandchildren Holly and Niamh.

(Further tributes to follow)

Andrew Scadding's funeral will take place at 10.30am on the 6th March at All Saints Church, Brailsford, Derbyshire, DE6 3AA (family flowers only).