Refugees Rock

Join us in making climbing accessible, inclusive and life-changing.

Refugees Rock is a free weekly climbing session hosted by The Climbing Academy in partnership with Borderlands and the British Red Cross. Weekly at The Mothership, refugees and asylum seekers are invited to climb alongside our coaches, charity staff, and Boulder Buddies—volunteers from the TCA community.

When is it?

Sessions run weekly on Thursdays from 12pm-1pm.
(with time set aside afterwards for teas/coffees).
The first session of each month will be coach-led by a member of the TCA team.

What is the Refugees Rock?

Refugees Rock is a free climbing club for people fleeing war, persecution, and exploitation. Founded in Liverpool in 2021 by Borderlands, the British Red Cross and The Climbing Hangar, it has since expanded across the UK.

The club brings people together in a welcoming, inclusive space where newcomers to the UK can climb for free with TCA coaches and volunteers. After climbing, participants can enjoy free coffee and connect in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Why does the group exist?

For many refugees and asylum seekers, life in the UK is incredibly difficult. The long wait for Home Office decisions, combined with a meagre allowance and restrictions on work, makes it almost impossible to maintain quality of life – let alone access activities that support physical and mental wellbeing.

At The Climbing Academy, we know how powerful climbing can be in building confidence, resilience and community. Refugees Rock is our way of making climbing accessible to those who need it most.

Being part of a local community group can be life-changing, offering a vital sense of belonging, support and connection. Through climbing, we’re creating a space where everyone is welcome – and where we can all learn from each other.

How can you help?

TCA customers can support Refugees Rock in two key ways:

1. Donate to support travel costs

Entry is free for participants, but transport can be a barrier. Help us cover bus fares by donating via buckets at The Mothership or ask staff.

2. Volunteer as a Boulder Buddy

No coaching experience needed! Boulder Buddies climb alongside participants, offering a warm welcome and friendly encouragement. It’s about having fun, making connections and supporting an inclusive community.

Get involved

Interested? Contact us:

• To volunteer as a Boulder Buddy: francisco@borderlands.org.uk
• To participate as a refugee or asylum seeker: katie@borderlands.org.uk