Board Meeting - 14th May 2025

The Healthy Minds Board of trustees met on Wednesday evening, 15th May 2025, with nine trustees present, and the Chief Officer, one Operational Manager, Business Manager and Finance Assistant (notes), also in attendance. The board accepted the resignation of Emily Dunk as trustee, due to work and family commitments. Emily has been trustee for three years, with particular contribution on membership, data management and human resources. The board will be writing to Emily to thank her for signification contributions and to wish her well for the future.

The board reviewed a draft scheme of delegation. This does not change any responsibilities, but simply makes clear where responsibilities lie. In particular, it distinguishes between the strategic and oversight responsibilities of the board, and the operational responsibilities of the Chief Officer and management colleagues.
The board confirmed some details around the recently launched Membership Scheme. We are delighted with the launch and welcome all new members, whether volunteers, staff, attendees at Healthy Minds services, or from the general public. We expect to see growth in organisational membership over the coming months. We are also looking to establish something along the lines of a junior membership, for young people under the age of 18. Details for this are to be worked through.
The board received the annual Safeguarding Report. We recognise the considerable sensitivity, importance and, at times, complexity of this work. We are assured that processes and support are in place, to enable appropriate and skilled support for staff, volunteers and attendees of our services in relation to safeguarding.
The board also received a detailed report from the Chief Officer. We agreed the budget for 2025/26. We were delighted to hear of the success of ForumFest, which a couple of trustees were able to attend. We noted the forthcoming Gala, 14th June.
The board understands the difficulties and challenges faced by all organisations working within the health and wellbeing sector at the present time. The voluntary sector makes a massive contribution, with Healthy Minds being a significant contributor within Calderdale. We equally recognise that this can be challenging at an individual level. The board joins me in thanking staff and volunteers for all that you do, and for your commitment to the values of Healthy Minds.
The board meets next on 22nd July 2025.

Paul Hunt
Chair of Trustees, 22nd July 2025