Counselling
We’ll connect you with a professional counsellor, for you or someone close to you.
For anyone in Scotland facing the end of life, or close to someone who is. We refer you to a qualified counsellor, at no cost to you.
Counselling gives you regular sessions with a qualified counsellor who is not part of your family or your care team.
What to expect
We refer you to a qualified, experienced counsellor. You’ll usually have a set number of sessions, in person or online, and you can talk about anything, such as fear, anger, practical worries or decisions you face.
We are not a crisis service. For urgent support, call Samaritans on 116 123, day or night, or Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87.
Who it’s for
Counselling is available before a death, around it, or long after.
If you’re facing the end of your life
- Your fears about dying
- What matters most to you
- Conversations you want to have with family
If someone close to you is dying
- What is happening and what comes next
- The strain of caring
Partners, family, friends and carers are all welcome.
After someone has died
- Grief, including anger, guilt or relief
Whether the death was recent or some time ago.
How it works
You can start by sending us a message.
-
A few minutes
Get in touch
Send us a message by email or through the contact form.
-
We assess what you need
Someone from Friends at the End contacts you to understand what you need.
-
We find a counsellor
We refer you to a qualified counsellor who suits you, near you or online.
-
Your sessions
You meet in confidence, and we cover the cost.
Questions people ask
- Is it really free?
Yes. Our members and supporters pay for it, so it costs you nothing.
- Do I need to share your views on assisted dying?
No. Our counsellors don’t take a view, and you don’t need to share ours to get support.
- How many sessions will I have?
Usually a set number, agreed with you and your counsellor at the start.
- Can I get in touch for someone else?
Yes, with their agreement. Tell us what’s happening, and we’ll talk about how we can help them.
- Will you tell anyone what I say?
No. What you say to your counsellor stays between you, unless they believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm. They’ll explain this at your first session.
Contact us
Send us a message and someone from Friends at the End will get back to you, usually within a few working days.
- Emailinfo@fate.scot
- Office0131 271 5971Our office line, not a helpline.
- PostFriends at the End, 42 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4HQ