“Aspire to Change – Breaking Barriers, Building Futures.”
Mission and
Values Statement
At Aspire2Change (A2C), we believe that those who’ve walked the hardest paths are often the best guides for those following in their footsteps. A2C was born from the collaboration between Chris Baker, whose lived experience of crime, trauma, and transformation drives his passion for change, and Ashley Howard, founder of Forever Young People, who has dedicated his career to empowering youth.
What makes A2C different
is our belief in lived experience as the most powerful tool for change.
We train and empower ex-offenders—people who have faced the system, learned from their past, and are now driven to make a difference—to mentor and inspire the next generation. This creates a ripple effect of transformation, where those who once contributed to the problem are now part of the solution.
A2C stands for hope, second chances, and the belief that no path is set in stone. Our goal is to open doors for young people who feel trapped by their circumstances and to build a community where experience fuels growth, and resilience becomes a shared strength.
Our Services
Expanding Mentorship Programs
Transformative Programs for Lasting Change. Our programs provide immediate support and foster long-term transformation through:
• Assemblies
• Building Resilience Workshop
• Knowing Your Worth Workshop
• County Lines Awareness Workshop
• Mentoring by Reformed Ex-Offenders
Together, these programs create lasting positive
change for individuals
and communities.
We believe in providing young people with the tools and confidence they need to break the cycle of adversity and pursue a life of growth and achievement.
We are dedicated to offering engaging, relevant, and powerful learning experiences that promote knowledge about ACEs, county boundaries, and the long-term repercussions of crime.
By sharing true tales and cultivating understanding, we hope to instill compassion and perseverance in the face of adversity.
We seek to be a trustworthy and dependable source of assistance, demonstrating positive behaviour and motivating accountability.
Our ultimate goal is to promote long-term, positive change by guiding young people towards a future full of hope and opportunity.
Our services of
Mentoring, Talks, and Workshops
✔ Fee will include
✔ Dedicated, trauma-informed mentoring sessions.
✔ Activities such as bowling, cinema, or other rapport-building experiences, travel costs, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
Our mentoring approach is deeply rooted in understanding and addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Having personally navigated multiple ACEs, I bring a unique perspective that resonates with care leavers or children facing similar challenges.
What Mentoring Includes:
• A safe, empathetic space to explore personal challenges and strengths.
• Setting achievable goals to foster hope and a positive outlook on the future.
• Developing self-confidence and practical life skills.
• Engaging in activities that build trust and a sense of belonging.
This holistic approach empowers young people to recognize their potential, make informed choices, and actively shape their futures.
✔ Powerful inspiring talks
My talks serve as the cornerstone of my work, offering a compelling narrative designed to inspire and motivate.
What the Talk Covers:
• The profound impact of ACEs on beliefs and behaviors.
• Insights from my journey through adversity after losing my arm in a police chase, crime, and transformation.
• Encouragement that change is possible, regardless of past experiences.
Delivered with authenticity and passion, these talks resonate deeply with audiences, fostering a shift in perspective and inspiring action.
✔ Engaging educational workshops
Building upon my talks, workshops provide an interactive environment for participants to delve deeper into personal development.
What the Workshops Cover:
• Understanding the effects of ACEs and strategies for resilience.
• Exploring the consequences of choices, including involvement in crime
• Developing emotional awareness and self-worth.
• Practical tools for setting and achieving personal goals.
These workshops are designed to equip participants with the skills and mindset necessary for positive change.
Real Stories. Lasting Change.
Hear from those who’ve experienced the power of lived experience in action. From frontline professionals to individuals supported by A2C, their words reflect the real-world impact of mentoring, resilience, and second chances.
Helen Croughton, Hertfordshire Constabulary
“Chris Baker recently joined us at Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Lives Not Knives event, where he spoke to young people at risk of exploitation and violence. His honest story of overcoming a challenging past through resilience and positive choices deeply resonated with our audience. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to speak with Chris afterwards. He brings a message of hope and real change, and we look forward to working with him again.”
Fiona Bowe, Nacro
“Chris has worked with us at Nacro for nearly a year, delivering impactful sessions to the men we support. His passion, honesty, and lived experience bring inspiration and hope to those facing hardship. His talks create real conversations around adversity, resilience, and personal growth. Chris’s ability to connect with people and empower change is invaluable, and we’re proud to continue working with him.”
Let’s Connect and Make a Difference
Through A2C, we offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to support care/prison leavers and young people affected by ACEs. our lived experience and trauma-informed approach ensure that each session is impactful, relevant, and transformative.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 7428 244686