16-25
Age group we predominantly serve
2023
Founded
20+
Partnered organisations
100%
Experience-led approach
There is no UNITY in the commUNITY without U and I
Who we are
Born from lived experience. Built for real impact.
Trauma-Informed at Our Core
Every interaction, every service, every space we create is rooted in trauma-informed practice — because healing requires safety first.
Akima was founded by a psychotherapist who has not only worked with trauma — but carried it too. We exist because the gap between statutory services and real-life need is too wide, and too many young people fall through it.
We are a grassroots, experience-led charity. That means we don't just understand the system — we've experienced it too. That's why we have created a safe, supportive environment where young people & families can heal, thrive and build brighter futures.
Bridging the Gap
We work with young people including those on CAMHS waiting lists, those left in limbo due to transitional age gaps, disengaged from traditional systems, and anyone who feels unseen or underserved.
Community at the Heart
There's no UNITY in the commUNITY without U and I. Our peer-led, community-rooted model means young people are part of the solution.
What we do
Our Services
We offer structured, tailored support — designed around the young person, not the system. Every pathway is built with care, expertise, and lived understanding.
Trauma Intervention & Aftercare
Support following trauma, significant emotional distress, traumatic loss or destabilising life experiences. This can include counselling, therapeutic mentoring, advocacy and psychoeducation.
Family Support
Whole-family support where trauma, stress, conflict or major life changes are affecting relationships, communication or family stability.
Includes practical support and care packages for families experiencing adversity, including those who have had to relocate or rebuild after difficult circumstances.
Parent & Carer Support
Individual support for parents and carers who need emotional support, guidance, advocacy, help navigating services or support strengthening family relationships.
Teenage/young Parent Support
Specialist emotional, practical and developmental support for teenage & young parents, including wellbeing, parenting confidence, relationships, education/employment goals and navigating services.
Includes practical support and care packages to help young parents with essential items during periods of transition or hardship.
Safer Connections
Support for young people to build healthier relationships, understand consent and boundaries, and make informed choices around sexual health and wellbeing. This includes relationship support, psychoeducation and access to FREE sexual health kits.
Akima Community Store
A welcoming, affordable community store offering new and pre-loved clothing, toys and essentials for newborns, children, young people and adults. The store will help families access good-quality items at affordable prices, while generating income that can be reinvested into Akima’s charitable work.
Who we support
If life feels like too much right now — you're in the right place.
We support young people aged 16–25 who are navigating some of life's most difficult experiences. You don't need to have everything figured out to reach out. You just need to take one step.
Trauma & PTSD
Grief & Bereavement
Violence & Exploitation
Grooming & CSE
Parent Support
Anxiety & Depression
Loss of Purpose
Teenage/young parent
CAMHS Waiting Lists
Naurodiverse
Family conflict
Transitional age gap
Not sure if Akima is right for you? Reach out anyway. We'll help you find the right support.
Find Your Path
I'm looking for...
Wherever you're coming from, we have something for you.
Support for Myself
Young Person aged 16 - 25 looking for confidential, non-judgement support.
Support for My Family
Parent or carer worried about a young person and not sure where to turn
Collaborate & Partnership
Organisations looking to collaborate or partner for events, workshops, programmes and signposting
Support our Work
Volunteer, fundraise, donate, or partner wanting to make a difference to young lives
Trusted & Working in partnership with
NHS
CAMHS
London Borough of Brent
London Borough of Lewisham
CNWL
Brook
MOPAC
Youth Justice Services/VRU
CNWL Discovery College
London Youth
NVC
Sexual Health London
(SHL)
Brent Young adult partnership
Step up Hub
City of Westiminister