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. Monthly at The Newsroom refugees and asylum seekers are invited to climb alongside our coaches, charity staff, and all being well in future Boulder Buddies—volunteers from the TCA community.

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.

More info

If you would like more info about Refugees Rock at TCA Glasgow, please email glasgow@theclimbingacademy.com.