STRM – SEND the Right Message is a parent-led registered charity supporting families across Southend, Castle Point, Rochford and wider Essex where a child or young person (aged 0–25) has, or may have, special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
We provide practical guidance, early intervention, peer support and advocacy to families navigating the SEND system.
We are seeking a Trustee Secretary to join our Board and support the effective governance and administration of the charity.
The Trustee Secretary plays an important role in helping the Board operate efficiently and transparently by supporting good governance practices.
This is a voluntary governance role and does not involve day-to-day operational work.
Responsibilities may include:
• Supporting the organisation
of Board meetings and preparing agendas with the Chair and CEO
• Ensuring accurate minutes are recorded and maintained
• Helping ensure governance documents and policies are up to date
• Supporting good governance practices and compliance with Charity Commission
guidance
• Ensuring key decisions and actions from meetings are properly documented
• Supporting communication between trustees when required
The Secretary works collaboratively with the Chair, trustees and leadership team to support the effective running of the Board.
Time commitment is approximately 4–8 hours per month, including Board meetings and preparation.
Essential
• Strong organisational
skills and attention to detail
• Ability to produce clear, accurate minutes and governance documentation
• Understanding of governance and compliance, or willingness to learn
• Clear and professional communication skills
• Integrity and discretion when handling sensitive information
• Commitment to STRM’s mission and values
Desirable
• Experience in charity
governance, administration or board secretariat roles
• Familiarity with Charity Commission requirements and good governance practice
• Confidence using digital tools for document management and communication
Start Date: 09/03/2026
End Date: 30/04/2026
| Slot | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Afternoon | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Evening | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Saturday – Morning / Afternoon Weekday evenings (occasionally) Availability Details Board meetings are usually held in the evening, with one Saturday daytime strategy session each year. Trustees should also allow time to review Board papers before meetings. Estimated time commitment: 4–8 hours per month. The Trustee Secretary will also allow additional time to support meeting preparation, agenda coordination and the recording of accurate minutes where required.
Ground Floor
320D High Road
Benfleet
Essex
SS7 5HB
St Vincents Centre Southend
Friends and Places Together
Trinity Family Centre
Young Minds Dementia Group
Stars Forward Trust
SEND The Right Message
SEND The Right Message