SEND the Right Message (STRM) is a charity run by parents, for parents. We know what it’s like to face challenges with navigating the complex SEND system, and we’re here to make sure families don’t face this alone.

We offer friendly support, practical advice, and fun activities for neurodivergent and disabled children, young people, and their parent carers across Essex and Southend. Our aim is simple: to help families feel supported, included, and hopeful about the future.

Welcome to STRM – SEND the Right Message Charity

Every family’s journey is different. There’s no single path and no pressure to do everything. You choose what support works for you and your family, when it works for you. However you connect with STRM, you’ll always find understanding, encouragement, and practical help.

What We Do

We offer flexible support that families can choose to access in the way that suits them:

  • Support before and after diagnosis – clear guidance and next steps, accessed via our sessions

  • Money & benefits help – support with DLA, PIP, grants, cost of living and energy advice

  • Parent carer support sessions – safe, supportive spaces to talk and connect

  • Children, family & community events – inclusive activities including bouldering and shared community sessions

  • Online forum – a moderated space to connect with other parents and carers

  • Membership Zone – free digital access to tools, resources, and community support

  • Supporting Your Neurodivergent Child – our free, practical guide to help families build understanding and confidence

Joining STRM

Joining STRM is free. There’s no pressure to attend sessions, post online, or engage in ways that don’t feel right for you. You can dip in and out of support, take what’s useful, and come back whenever you need to. We’re here to walk alongside you — not to overwhelm you.

Want to Know More About STRM?

STRM is run by parents, for parents, with lived experience at the heart of everything we do. Learn more about who we are, how we work, and the impact we make for families and communities.

Help Make Support Possible

STRM’s support is free for families because of donations, grants, and community fundraising. Your support helps us reach families earlier, reduce isolation, and keep vital help accessible.

STRM is a parent-led charity delivering early, community-based support for disabled and neurodivergent children, young people, adults, and their families.