Advertised from 11 June 2025

Role

Join the Board of Friends at the End (SCIO)

Are you passionate about human rights, dignity, and compassionate choices at the end of life? Friends at the End SCIO is looking for committed and values-driven individuals to join our Board and help steer our work at this pivotal moment in Scotland’s journey toward assisted dying legislation.

About Us

Friends at the End (FATE) is a Scottish charity that supports individuals' choices at the end of life. We advocate for a change in the law to allow assisted dying for mentally competent adults. Our mission is to provide information, support, and guidance on end-of-life options, empowering people to make informed decisions.

Following the historic Stage 1 vote in favour of Liam McArthur’s Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill, we are entering a crucial new phase of our work. As a Board Member, you will help us build on this progress, ensuring the charity remains strong, strategic, and focused on delivering impact.

Role Overview

As a Board Member, you will contribute to the strategic direction, governance, and development of FATE. You will bring your knowledge, experience, and passion to help us achieve our goals, support our staff and volunteers, and represent the charity’s values in all that we do.

Key Responsibilities:

• Participate in quarterly board meetings and contribute to strategic decision-making.
• Provide guidance and oversight on key areas such as governance, fundraising, communications, partnerships, and service delivery.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting our work and values.
• Support staff and volunteers to deliver our mission effectively.
• Help ensure that FATE remains sustainable, impactful, and aligned with its charitable objectives.

What We're Looking For:

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, particularly those with experience in:

• Governance, strategy, or leadership in the third sector
• Law, healthcare, communications, fundraising, or policy
• Advocacy, campaigning, or end-of-life care
• Lived or professional experience relating to terminal illness, bereavement, or personal autonomy
• If the Assisted Dying Bill in Scotland passes in early 2026, Friends at the End may take on responsibility for delivering a patient navigation service to support implementation, education, and rollout, as well as provide guidance for both patients and practitioners. With this in mind, we would particularly welcome individuals with experience in launching and delivering new services.  

Above all, we're looking for people who are passionate about our mission and committed to helping us achieve meaningful change.

Why Join Us?

• Play a part in one of the most significant human rights debates of our time.
• Contribute to the development of life-changing legislation and public understanding.
• Work with a small, dedicated, and passionate team and Board.
• Help ensure that individuals and families across Scotland receive the support they need at the end of life.
• Be part of a forward-thinking, inclusive organisation at a historic moment in its journey.

Application notes

If you’re ready to contribute your time, ideas, and skills to a cause that truly matters, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your experience and what draws you to the Board of Friends at the End SCIO to convener@fate.scot by 27th July 2025.