As well as a humanist celebrant, I’m a chaplain, campaigner and writer.
I’ve had several articles on humanism published by The Guardian and other newspapers.
In 2007, I campaigned to open up BBC Radio 4’s Thought for the Day slot to humanists and – in 2008 and in partnership with The Guardian newspaper – created a series of podcasts called ‘Another Thought for the Day’. I also campaigned for two (unsuccessful) bills at the Scottish Parliament in support of Assisted Dying legislation.
In 2017, I was the first humanist to be invited to participate in a Remembrance Day Ceremony for the Scottish Government and I’ve now given two Time for Reflection addresses to the Scottish Parliament; the most recent was in December 2025 and you can see it here.
I’ve been the Honorary Humanist Chaplain to the University of Edinburgh since 2013, and in 2023 I took up the same role with the Multi-Faith chaplaincy team at Napier University.
Tim…you delivered alovely tribute to my brother Jim Duncan at Porteous Funeral Directors in Juniper Green. You were a super help to my older brother Charlie in organising this. It wasnt a straightforward family context but you wove a wonderful picture of a special loss nonetheless for those present. I want to pass on my personal thanks.
Thank you so much, Sue – I’m very touched that you’ve sought me out to let me know, and I’m very glad to have been a help at a difficult time. Thank you again.