Refugees Rock is a free climbing club for people fleeing war, persecution and exploitation.
We’re building a UK-wide community that welcomes anyone seeking sanctuary, sharing the joy of climbing to promote wellbeing, fun and a sense of belonging.
.SEV & ALI'S STORY.
As part of The Daily Mirror's "Island of Strangers" film series, our Liverpool Refugees Rock group shows how climbing can build powerful friendships. Sev and Ali’s story is one of resilience, solidarity, and hope.
Why Refugees Rock?
For asylum seekers, arriving in the UK is not the end of their journey. Living on an allowance of £7* per day and not permitted to work, they face uncertainty and insecurity waiting for a decision on whether they’ll be allowed to stay.
It’s almost impossible to maintain quality of life, and mental and physical wellbeing are a daily struggle.
Being part of a community can be life-changing for refugees and asylum seekers as they find their feet in a new country. Climbing offers a unique opportunity to share experiences, regardless of language, background, age and ability. Refugees Rock creates safe spaces with connection, and celebration at their heart.
our groups
50+ volunteers
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11 groups
500 climbers
We currently have groups established in 9 locations, and counting! They include:
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Liverpool
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Sheffield
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Manchester
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Ellesmere Port
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Birmingham (coming soon!)
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Reading
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London (coming soon!)
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Exeter
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Bristol
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Edinburgh
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Glasgow
Sessions are supported by volunteer Boulder Buddies from the local community - usually super-psyched climbers who like nothing better than helping new people onto the wall.
The National Project office provides guidance to launch new groups, raises national visibility through marketing and media opportunities and hosts the Partners Community for peer to peer support.
How does it work?
Climbing walls and charities across the UK partner up to host a regular, free climbing session every month, often during quiet climbing times.
Walls provide the space, equipment and post-climb refreshments; charities bring the climbers, and accompany them to sessions to provide support and maximise the fun.
want to get involved?
Run a Refugees Rock Group - charities and climbing gyms - if you're not already partnered up we'll help find a local match.
Become a Boulder Buddy - volunteer at monthly sessions. We'll introduce you to local opportunities as they become available.
Support us - fundraise, lobby charities or walls, and help us spread the word.
Drop us your details. Let's get growing!
(We aim to respond to all enquiries within seven days.)
refugees rock in action
founding partners
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our partners
