13 Feb 2025
This February 2025, The Forward Trust officially welcomes Tony Adams MBE into the coveted role of Chair of Trustees. Tony replaces The Right Honourable David Bernstein, who has decided to step down after 12 incredibly successful years of service. In his own words, Tony speaks about his plans for getting stuck in, his passion for our charitable mission and how his own life story has shaped who he is today.
Taking on the role of Chair of Trustees at The Forward Trust is a real privilege. It’s a responsibility that I don’t take lightly, and one that means a great deal to me personally. My connection with this brilliant organisation goes all the way back to 1996. In the years since, I’ve witnessed the incredible impact that The Forward Trust has on helping people to turn their lives around.
As someone who’s been there and done it - battled addiction, felt the shame, done time - I know exactly how tough that fight can be. My own struggles with alcoholism nearly cost me everything, but, I got help from some incredible people and I managed to find a way through. My recovery has fuelled my desire and determination to help inspire and enable others to do the same.
It's one of the reasons why I set up Sporting Chance in 2000, it was designed to support athletes and sportspeople also struggling with addiction. More recently, I launched Six Mental Health Addiction, which was aimed at the corporate world to help employees deal with issues around addiction. What I’ve learned through these endeavours is that addiction doesn’t discriminate - even if you’re a Premier League captain. But with the right support, #RecoveryIsPossible – as Forward likes to say.
People will ask, “Why The Forward Trust, Tony?"
Firstly, I’ve been involved with the charity for nearly 30 years. I am deeply connected to its vision that anyone – whatever their history or circumstances – should have the opportunity and support to live a positive life that fulfils their potential, and to inspire others to follow the same path.
The Forward Trust’s drug, alcohol, and gambling programmes, combined with employment opportunities and housing support, help thousands of people each year. I want to help steer its growth and lend even more support to its campaigns Taking Action on Addiction and More Than My Past. Forward likes to be innovative and speak out - and that greatly appeals to me.
I’m following in the footsteps of David Bernstein, who’s done an incredible job as Chair for the last twelve years, I know I’ve got big boots to fill. But I’m ready for it. I want to build on the fantastic work already being done, working alongside the board, the dedicated staff, and our partners to drive this mission forward.
For me, this isn’t just about leadership - it’s about using my experience to inspire and support those who feel lost, stuck, or written off. I truly believe that with the right help, anyone can turn their life around.
