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34 years supporting lgbtq+ young people

akt has been providing providing routes to safe housing, support and secure futures for LGBTQ+ young people since 1989. We are a UK-wide charity with centres in four major cities.

how akt began

In 1989, Cath Hall and six volunteers founded akt in Manchester. Named after Albert Kennedy, who tragically lost his life after facing homophobic abuse, the trust began as a refuge for queer young people in the city.
What would I tell a young person? Be proud of who you are and don’t be afraid to tell somebody.
Cath Hall, founder of akt

our story

akt was founded by Cath Hall in Manchester in 1989 at the height of the AIDS crisis. Cath was an experienced foster carer and activist. A queer ally, she witnessed the difficult choices young queer people were forced to make between living in safety and living in their truth.
Some [LGBTQ+ people] had horrific experiences in care and had mostly been running away
Cath Hall, founder of akt
Cath and a small, dedicated group of activists made it their mission to give LGBTQ+ young people the support they vitally needed.

  • 24

    %

    of homeless young people

    Identify as LGBTQ+.

  • 77

    %

    believe that coming out

    to their parents was the main factor.

34 years of support

In a little over 30 years, we’ve created a national network of safe places and digital support services. Our relationships with other incredible charities allow us to support thousands of young people every year.
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  • 1989

    akt founded as Albert Kennedy Trust

  • 1996

    akt wins the Stonewall Equality Award

  • 2019

    30 years of supporting LGBTQ+ young people

the people behind akt

From our Trustees to our Leadership Team to our UK-wide community of volunteers and fundraisers, people are what makes our services possible.

volunteering

Our volunteers support our services in a number of different capacities.

careers

Could you see yourself working to improve the lives of queer people?

SUPPORT OUR VITAL SERVICES

Our supporters keep our vital services services running. Help us achieve our mission to provide routes to safer housing and support for LGBTQ+ young people by donating what you can today.
Donate today