	Baldwin was born in Barking, Greater London. He was on trial at Gillingham and impressed Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler after a season with Faversham Town's first-team at the age of 18 years before going on trial with North-East side Hartlepool United and signing a professional contract after impressing manager Mick Wadsworth in pre-season friendlies. Prior to signing this contract, Baldwin was due to start University in a few months time to do a course in Sports Therapy at Kent.