Every day the case workers at akt work with young LGBTQ+ people who are facing, or at risk of homelessness. Our work spans the country but there is a particular need for our services in Bristol and the South West. This Tuesday the 15th November, akt launched a new office in Bristol that will be an important lifeline for young LGBTQ+ people in the South West.

Data from the young people who use our services has shown that 63% of the young people we helped in Bristol between 2021 and 2022 identified as trans, non-binary or were questioning their gender identity. This is a full 15% above the 48% nationwide. Until now, akt has worked remotely in the area, and lots of the young people in Bristol who use our services do so digitally, so to have a physical space for young people to visit is of vital importance.

The Bristol launch was an exciting day, featuring lino printing, and a number of speeches from akt's staff and supporters. Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees was also at the opening on Tuesday 15th November and spoke about some of the socio-economic issues that face young LGBTQ+ people in the UK. When Marvin was elected, Bristol became the first major European city to have elected a mayor of black African heritage. Marvin and akt are both aware of the intersecting and complex issues that face young LGBTQ+ people at risk of homelessness, and the compounding social issues that also exist when those young people are also people of colour.

That's why the services that akt provide are so essential for young LGBTQ+ people who are facing the threat of homelessness. I am happy that they are now able to provide this in Bristol and the South West. It was amazing to meet their wonderful team and hear powerful testimony from the young people that are so grateful for the service they provide.”

59% of LGBTQ+ young people have faced some form of discrimination or harassment while accessing services.  More than two-fifths of local authorities and housing associations in the UK have not received training on LGBTQ+ inclusion or LGBTQ+ homelessness. Marvin, and akt, will work together over the coming weeks and months to help find long-lasting pathways into safe and affordable housing for the young people of Bristol. Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees

It was a privilege to celebrate the launch of akt's Bristol and South West service. LGBTQ+ individuals make up around 24% of homeless young people aged 18 to 24 nationally - they often face more abuse whilst using services and are less likely to have somewhere to turn. As a result many of them find it difficult to reach out and get suitable support for their needs.

Click here to listen to the podcast about how we are striving to end LGBTQ+ youth homelessness in Bristol

Click here to read the article "HOPE FOR BRISTOL’S YOUNG QUEER HOMELESS"