What is the Scottish Diabetes Advisory Council (SDAC)?
It is an independent group of expert advisers and critical friends who provide scientific, clinical and lived-experience insight to help shape Diabetes Scotland’s priorities and work across Scotland. Aligned to Diabetes UK ambitions and informed by Scotland’s unique health and policy landscape, SDAC supports Diabetes Scotland to maximise its influence, impact and reach.
Who is involved in SDAC?
The membership brings together people with a personal connection to diabetes, alongside healthcare professionals, researchers and clinicians, ensuring that lived experience and professional expertise are equally represented. This diverse membership provides a breadth of perspectives that help inform and strengthen Diabetes Scotland’s work.
What does the membership do?
They provide expert advice, challenge and strategic guidance on issues affecting the prevention, treatment and support of people living with diabetes in Scotland. Drawing on a diverse range of perspectives, the Council helps ensure that Diabetes Scotland’s work is evidence-based, relevant and responsive to the needs of people affected by diabetes. Working win collaboration with Diabetes Scotland they also offer insight on the implications of policy developments at Westminster, Holyrood and NHS Board level, helping to inform our advocacy, influence decision-making and improve outcomes for people living with or at risk of diabetes across Scotland.
How many people sit on the Council?
A maximum of 15 members.
How often do they meet?
Quarterly hybrid meetings (choosing to attend either in person or via teams).
Do members get paid?
No, but reasonable expenses will be met.
Are people who have lived experience of diabetes allowed to be members?
Yes.
How do I apply to be a member?
If you are passionate about improving outcomes for people living with or at risk of diabetes and would like to help influence the future direction of Diabetes Scotland, we would love to hear from you. If you are a person with lived experience of diabetes and/or a clinician, a healthcare professional, a researcher and/or a policy expert based in Scotland please submit a CV to colin.mitchell@diabetes.org.uk by Monday, 24 August 2026 at 10am.
If I am unsuccessful, can I still be involved with Diabetes Scotland?
You will receive a thank you message and the opportunity to speak with our Engaging Communities and Volunteering team. They can discuss with you other other opportunities that may be of interest. To be kept informed about future opportunities of interest , we will ask your permission to keep your contact details on our database.
How long will I be a member?
Membership is for a tenure of 3 years, at which point members will be expected to step back for re-election if you wish to remain on the SDAC.
What if I do not agree with some of the proposals made by Diabetes Scotland?
That's okay. We welcome different viewpoints and encourage open, respectful discussion. Healthy debate helps us make better decisions, and all feedback will be considered carefully. While member input is highly valued and encouraged, Diabetes Scotland is ultimately responsible for setting our priorities and making final decisions on delivery.
