Our current Chair of Trustees, Stephen Brady, has decided to stand down to pursue other opportunities. Whilst we recruit a new Chair, we are welcoming one of NIDAS’s current trustees to hold the fort. We would like to introduce Martin Cook, Interim Chair of Trustees at NIDAS. Learn more about Martin below.

Hello to all NIDAS stakeholders.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you as Interim Chair of NIDAS as Stephen Brady stands down, with our thanks and good wishes, in April.

First involvement with NIDAS

My first involvement with NIDAS on a personal level was back in 2013 – I was asked to wear one of my own creations in a fundraising Fashion Show at Nottingham’s Council House.

Professional background

My professional background is in the health and social care and education sectors. I am currently working with 16 -18-year-old A-Level students at Nottingham College. I have previously worked extensively across statutory, private, and voluntary provision in health and social care, including working with Nottinghamshire County Council SSD, Macmillan Cancer Support, and as Registered Manager for a new, independent homecare organisation. In addition, I owned and ran a small training agency, qualifying health and social care staff and management across Nottinghamshire.

Trusteeship and volunteering

Whilst operating my previous business, I was a Trustee of Sherwood Community Association CIO, from whom I also rented office space.

My most recent post in the voluntary sector was as Training Manager with Self Help UK – a charity which helps and promotes peer support groups, including groups supporting individuals with experience of domestic abuse.

A note from Martin

I look forward to meeting you over the coming months. I am committed to ensuring that NIDAS continues the provision of excellent and desperately needed services, which it is rightly proud of, as well as the development of a well-supported staff and management team.

Thank you.

Martin Cook

Interim Chair of Trustees at NIDAS