SURF is primarily concerned with shared efforts to tackle the causes and degenerative impacts of poverty and inequalities.

Prior to his SURF role, Andy spent 10 years as co-ordinator of the Wester Hailes Representative Council. This was frequently cited as a model of genuinely community-led innovation, representation and service delivery. 

Andy found his way into independent community development work via studying architecture and an interest in politics. He went on to support the coordination of community and voluntary organisations in West Lothian via the Bathgate Area Initiatives Team.

Andy also served on the boards of Planning Aid Scotland, the Community Development Alliance for Scotland. He retired from full time work in May 2021 and now spends more time pursuing his interests as an amateur artist, reader, cyclist and grandfather.