Join The Sensory Den CIC

The Sensory Den CIC exists to improve wellbeing through sensory spaces, reduce isolation for children and adults with SEND, and provide accessible sensory opportunities in the community.

About Us

The Sensory Den began in 2024 as a family-run social enterprise based just outside York. Since then, we have provided pop-up sensory spaces, sensory equipment hire, and inclusive events for children, families, and adults with additional needs.

Our mission has always been clear: to make sensory experiences accessible, engaging, and supportive for all.

We know the benefits of sensory spaces for wellbeing, regulation, and inclusion. From calming children in busy environments, to providing therapeutic support for adults with learning differences, to creating safe spaces at festivals and community events – sensory rooms have the power to change lives.

Now, we are taking the next step in our journey with the launch of The Sensory Den CIC (Community Interest Company) – a dedicated arm of our work that will allow us to:

Focus entirely on our community mission
Access new funding and grant opportunities
Expand our reach to more families, schools, and community groups
Build a sustainable future for our services

This is a hugely exciting moment for The Sensory Den, and we are looking for passionate people to join us.

Our Goals

The Sensory Den CIC has three central goals:

Accessibility: Provide sensory rooms and spaces for families, schools, and adults with SEND who may otherwise be excluded.
Wellbeing: Reduce isolation and improve mental health through sensory regulation and inclusive experiences.
Sustainability: Secure ongoing funding and partnerships to ensure long-term impact and growth.

The Role of a Volunteer

We are seeking one independent volunteer Director to sit on the board of The Sensory Den CIC.

As a Director, you would help us shape the strategic direction of the organisation and ensure that everything we do remains true to our purpose: serving the community through accessible sensory provision.

Your responsibilities would include:

Attending around 3-4 Board meetings per year (online or in person near York)
Working with fellow Directors to guide decision-making and strategy
Ensuring good governance, safeguarding, and financial oversight
Acting as an ambassador for The Sensory Den within your networks and the wider community
Offering your insight, skills, or experience to help us grow sustainably and inclusively

This is not a hands-on operational role – day-to-day delivery is managed by our team – but your contribution at Board level will be vital to our success.

Who we are looking for

You don’t need to be an expert in sensory provision – we welcome applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds. What matters most is your passion for inclusion and community wellbeing.

You might be:

Experienced in business, finance, or governance and keen to use those skills for social good
A parent, carer, or professional with lived experience of additional needs
Someone with knowledge of education, health, or social care
An enthusiastic individual who wants to give something back to the community

We value creativity, fresh ideas, and a commitment to working as part of a supportive team.

What You Will Gain

While this is a voluntary, unpaid position, the benefits of joining us are significant. As a Director of The Sensory Den CIC, you will:

Gain experience in board-level leadership within the social enterprise and non-profit sector
Strengthen your CV with governance and strategic planning experience
Build new community and professional connections
Contribute to an innovative, growing organisation that is already making a positive impact
Take pride in knowing that your involvement is directly improving the lives of children, families, and adults in your local community

Why This Matters

At The Sensory Den, we believe sensory spaces should not be a luxury or something families have to travel miles to access. They should be part of everyday community life – available in schools, events, and local hubs.

By joining us as a Director, you will help us achieve this vision. Together, we can expand the reach of The Sensory Den CIC and make sure that more people experience the benefits of sensory spaces – calm, joy, inclusion, and connection.

Our Values

Inclusion: Everyone deserves access to spaces that meet their sensory needs.
Kindness: We treat all families, children, and adults with compassion and respect.
Creativity: We use sensory tools and environments to unlock potential and wellbeing.
Community: We build connections, reduce isolation, and work in partnership.
Empowerment: We create opportunities for people to thrive, not just cope.

How to get involved

If this opportunity excites you, we would love to hear from you.

📩 To express your interest or request more information, please email us at hello@thesensoryden.co.uk

We would be delighted to arrange a chat and explore whether this role could be the right fit for you.