Before making a referral, please check our eligibility criteria

For young people referred by professionals who meet our criteria but do not have commissioning or funding in place.

For young people aged 16–25. This route is designed for those not currently connected to services.

Paid placements offer priority access to our most comprehensive support. Includes full access to our 6-month or 12-month therapeutic intervention programme: Weekly trauma-informed therapy Mentoring every 1- 2 weeks Expressive art therapy integration A.K.I.M.A. Pathway Personalised care plan Advocacy Skills/ Personal development Access to workshops, wellbeing groups, and emotional support Multi-agency collaboration (if required) Case reviews every 6–8 weeks Crisis-informed support Family liaison when needed End-of-programme report (if required) Priority scheduling (within 15 working days) Pathway to Ambassador programme (optional) This option is ideal for young people requiring structured, intensive, and ongoing intervention. Professionals can refer directly using our Professional Referral Form.

For parents/carers wishing to refer a young person.

For families affected by trauma, violence, homicide, and complex emotional challenges. Akima offers a safe, confidential space for families who are navigating: *Bereavement after homicide or violent loss *Ongoing trauma within the family *Conflict, communication breakdown or emotional distance *Safety concerns, stress, anger or anxiety in the home *Support needs for adolescents aged 16–25 This pathway is designed to stabilise, support and strengthen families who are carrying heavy emotional realities. What Families Can Access: *Family Therapy *Guided sessions to explore communication, emotions, grief, conflict and relational dynamics in a safe and structured way. *Expressive Art Therapy (individual or joint) *Creative emotional release sessions for young people and parents/carers, using colour, art and expression to process trauma. *Homicide & Violent Loss Support *Compassionate specialist support for families impacted by traumatic bereavement, sudden loss and long-term grief. *Parent/Carer Guidance Sessions: *Space to gain clarity, support, emotional tools and insight into your young person’s behaviour, needs and progression. Ideal for Families who: *Have a young person aged 16–25 *Are experiencing the impact of trauma, violence, exploitation, loss or emotional distress *Want safe, steady support and space to grow *Are ready to positively engage in the process *Need support but are not currently in a crisis, suicidal or at immediate risk