New initiative at King James’s School inspired by late wife's 'quiet force of compassion'

The establishment of Become a Journey represents a positive story about community response and practical action at a time when schools are under increasing pressure to meet growing wellbeing needs.

Founded by David Ashton-Jones alongside Steve and Anne Jones, the new organisation has responded directly to King James’s call for additional support by funding a qualified mental health practitioner to work on site two days per week.

David said his late wife, Becki, was a “quiet force of compassion”, especially when it came to young people, particularly those navigating anxiety, loss, low confidence and fractured relationships.

“She believed deeply in the power of connection, safe spaces, and simply being present with someone, trusting in them until they could believe in themselves,” he said.

Shaped by those values, Become a Journey has launched with a three-year initiative at King James’s School.

The organisation will provide £15,000 per year over three consecutive years to fund the placement of qualified mental health professionals from Well Connections at the school.

The practitioner will be based at the school for two days per week working closely with the school to ensure young people can access the right support when they need it.

Become a journey was created to continue Becki’s journey carrying forward her compassion, her belief in care and connection, and her instinct to respond where people need support most.

While the organisation’s work will develop over time, her family says this first initiative reflects both Becki’s strong concern for young people.

David said: “When King James’s School publicly shared the challenges they were facing in supporting young people, it felt important to respond.

"Becki cared deeply about young people and believed in the power of connection and presence.

"After speaking with Steve and Anne, we couldn’t think of a more worthy initiative with which to launch Become a Journey, one that reflects her values and makes a real difference to young people.”

More information: https://becomeajourney.org.uk/