As we celebrate Learning Disability Week, we’re shining a light on My Aspire - a simple but powerful tool that’s helping people we support feel seen, heard and in control of their own journey.

My Aspire first launched at Aspens in March 2025, born from an idea of Gary Haynes, Inclusion Lead, who saw the need for a clear, accessible way for people to map out their goals. Gary developed the content alongside Meraud Davis, Head of Service Development & PBS, with Erin Bashford, Creative Assistant, bringing the design to life. Together, they created a workbook that is now being used across Aspens’ services.

My Aspire is a paper‑based workbook that breaks down goals into manageable steps, creating a visual timeline of progress. Each page invites feedback from both staff and the people we support, through words, photos or drawings, and milestone certificates mark each achievement along the way.

For the people we support, the workbook can be transformative. It turns something that once felt overwhelming into something achievable, one step at a time. “I wanted people to have something that showed them their progress in a way that felt real and personal,” says Gary. “My Aspire helps people believe in themselves - and that’s incredibly powerful.”

For staff, it’s a reminder that every journey is unique. It supports co‑production, evidences progress and keeps everyone focused on what truly matters to each person.

We hope to develop My Aspire as an app in the future, but the team chose to begin with a paper version to ensure it remains fully accessible.

Most importantly, My Aspire helps people feel seen, valued and included - celebrating every step of their journey. A small booklet, making a big difference.

If you or someone you care for could benefit from Aspens’ support, get in touch with our team today.

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