Non-Executive Director

About Cup-O-T:

Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services provides accessible, creative, evidence based mental health support and training to empower communities, young people and families.

Cup-O-T offers outdoor-based occupational therapy programmes as well as family and community sessions. The programmes empower young people aged 7-25 and families, who face complex and difficult challenges in their lives. We focus on the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of our young people working with them to make lasting

changes to their lives and helping them play a positive role in their communities. Our sessions are for young people at risk of exclusion, becoming NEET and those with trauma, SEND and SEMH difficulties. 

Our therapy groups are designed and led by qualified Occupational Therapists, Youth Workers and Outdoor Facilitators who also have training and experience working in outdoor and woodland environments. 

About the role:

We are seeking two new members for our board of directors who are passionate about making mental health support accessible to young people and families in Norfolk.

Our board of passionate and committed Non-Executive Directors play a vital role in ensuring that Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services is focused on its strategic direction and supported to deliver on its aims. Additionally, the Board has the responsibility to ensure that all legal and funding requirements are met in line with national governance, finance and operational standards. 

In this role you will support Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services continue to develop, improving the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation to meet the challenges ahead. You will be supporting, advising and challenging the team to meet the organisation's aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document and the legal and regulatory guidelines.

Cup-O-T: Wellness and Therapy Services is striving to ensure our team reflects the diverse communities we aim to support, so we welcome applications from individuals of any background. We are keen to receive application from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds or those with disabilities and lived experience. Candidates with experience of the VCSE sector or governance operations will also be particularly welcome.

Main responsibilities:

• To ensure Cup-O-T and its team work within the guidelines of the sector and in accordance with the governing document.
• To determine the overall direction and strategy of the organisation and its future.
• To uphold the Cup-O-T’s policies and procedures and act at all times in the interest of the organisation and our beneficiaries.
• To oversee the Cup-O-T’s finances and accounts and ensure funds are being allocated efficiently
• To meet with and communicate with board of directors regularly
• Building relationships and representing Cup-O-T at community, council and partnership meetings

Person Specification 

• An understanding of, or interest in, the VCSE sector
• Experience of working in a strategic way - paid or voluntary
• Independent judgement and a creative approach to problem solving
• An understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of a director, or a willingness to learn
• Dedicated to the organisation’s cause and objectives and willing to act as the organisation’s ambassador to external bodies, charities and companies. 
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of VCSE fundraising and finance practices
• Good communication and leadership skills 
• Competent use of IT skills
• Skills and experience in one or more areas of non-executive governance and management e.g. strategic planning, business management, financial/accountancy, experience of Trusts or other grant giving bodies particularly fundraising and legal knowledge.  
• Experience as a chair or a board of directors / trustees is desirable
• Experience of health commissioning, contracts and tenders is desirable

Time Commitment  

The Board meets bi-monthly / 6 times a year. It is expected that trustees spend at least 1 hour a week on their duties. 

Safeguarding:

• To adhere to the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures.
• To report any safeguarding incidents or concerns immediately to your Designated Safeguarding Officer or Lead Designated Safeguarding Officer.
• To complete any Safeguarding Awareness training as required 
• If required for your post, undertake an enhanced DBS check and maintain annual membership through the update service.