After seven years of incredible commitment and leadership, Chairperson of the Cash for Kids Board of Trustees in the West of Scotland, Eddie Hawthorne, is stepping down from his role. The news was shared at last night’s Board of Trustees meetings which was then followed by a surprise celebration.

Arnold Clark Group Chief Executive and Group Managing Director, Eddie has been at the heart of Cash for Kids throughout his time as Chairperson, helping guide the charity to reach more children, raise more funds, and make a bigger difference than ever before. During his time with the charity Eddie has helped to raise an astonishing £15,686,732 to improve the lives of 557,358 disadvantaged children. His passion and drive have inspired the team and left a legacy we’re all proud to build on.

Reflecting on his time as Chairperson, Eddie said:

“It has been a tremendous honour and privilege to chair the Cash for Kids charity in the West of Scotland for the past seven years. During this time, I have seen the many families and children in our local communities who have been affected by poverty, hunger and a lack of opportunities. However, I have also seen the huge generosity and kindness of people here in the West of Scotland who are determined to help and make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate than themselves. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for everything they do – they continue to make a huge difference to the lives of so many children and young people.”

“I would also like to thank my fellow trustees, our wonderful team at Cash for Kids, led by Grace, all the team at Clyde 1, Clyde 1 Ayrshire, Greatest Hits Radio Scotland, the wider Bauer network, and everyone who has helped the charity over the last seven years – the number of children we have helped is phenomenal. The need for support unfortunately keeps rising, so I wish every success to Jason, the trustees, and the Cash for Kids team as they continue to help as many children as possible here in the West of Scotland.”

“I will continue to be an avid supporter of Cash for Kids and all the vital work you do to support our local communities.”

As Eddie retires from his position, we’re delighted to announce that Jason Miller – who currently sits on the charity’s Board of Trustees – will be stepping into the role of Chairperson for West Scotland. Jason brings huge energy, experience and a strong passion for supporting disadvantaged children in our communities having supported Cash for Kids as part of Central Car Auctions for over 25 years.

Sally Aitchison MBE, Managing Director of Cash for Kids, said: “I would like to thank Eddie for his generous support, time and expertise. Eddie has been a hugely positive force for good with a determination to make a difference to the lives of those children who need our support in the West of Scotland. And I know that Jason, who has been with us since 2014, shared that same deep understanding of Cash for Kids and a real passion for helping local children.”

Moving forward

As Eddie retires from his position, we’re delighted to announce that Jason Miller – who currently sits on the charity’s Board of Trustees – will be stepping into the role of Chairperson. Jason brings huge energy, experience and a strong passion for supporting disadvantaged children in our communities having supported Cash for Kids as part of Central Car Auctions for over 25 years.

Looking ahead, Jason shared: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chairperson and build on the fantastic work Eddie and the team have done. Cash for Kids is such a special charity, and I’m looking forward to working with the trustees and the wider team to continue making a difference for children across the West of Scotland.”

We want to take this opportunity to thank Eddie for his outstanding leadership over the past seven years – and to warmly welcome Jason as he begins this exciting new chapter with us!

Want to know more? Take a look at our Trustees to find out who they are and what they do.