I am running for akt. As many of you will know, I've never done a half marathon before so this is big for me! I tried once when I was 26 so let's see how I do at 65. I will do my best to finish and might be at the back - but my positive attitude will hopefully pull me through.

akt is the only national charity dedicated to providing support for LGBTQ+ young people who are either at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing it. Shockingly, statistics reveal that 24% of homeless individuals aged 16-25 identify as LGBTQ+.

Unlike their heterosexual or cisgender counterparts, LGBTQ+ individuals often find themselves homeless precisely because of their identity, making them vulnerable to precarious housing situations.

Right now in the UK:

LGBTQ+ people are twice as likely to experience homelessness.

Over 50% of the young people we support at akt are trans or non-binary.

And with no policies in place to protect them, we expect these numbers to rise.

But your support can be the turning point. Every donation provides real, tangible help to a young LGBTQ+ person who needs it.

No one should have to choose between a safe home and being who they are.