Climbing has the power to boost confidence, wellbeing and physical health. With Clearwater’s continued support, we’re scaling up that impact across the UK.

Access Sport is delighted to announce that Clearwater has pledged an additional £73,000 in funding to grow our Climbz programme.

This new investment builds on our existing partnership with Clearwater, which has already helped hundreds of young people experience the life-changing benefits of community sport.

We have worked with climbing and bouldering venues since 2019 to make the sport more inclusive for disabled young people. Through our Changing Sports climbing programme, we provide hands-on support so venues can launch new pan-disability inclusive sessions, where they previously didn’t exist.

We have also supported the National Indoor Climbing Award Schemes (NICAS) in developing the UK’s first disability inclusive climbing and bouldering award scheme – NICAS Ascend. The scheme is designed to be a flexible introduction to climbing where disabled participants can become more competent at their own pace. 

Nicholas Parkin, Managing Director at NICAS, said:
“We like organisations like Access Sport because you do what you say you will and offer excellent value in a highly professional way.”

With Clearwater’s additional support, we will expand Climbz into more locations, train more coaches in inclusive delivery, and support more community groups to offer climbing sessions tailored to local needs. The funding will also help embed inclusive practices within climbing centres, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Sarah Jones, Programme Leader at Access Sport, said:
"This is a massive step forward for our Climbz programme. With Clearwater’s continued support, we're expanding opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged young people to access inclusive climbing. Together, we’re changing lives - one climb at a time."

Helen Rowbotham, Chief Executive at Access Sport, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Clearwater for this generous investment in the future of Climbz. Together, we are breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive, active future for all young people.”

Jo Daley, Director – Head of Impact, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with Access Sport and support the Climbz programme. Climbing builds resilience, confidence and connection, values that align closely with our own. This investment reflects our commitment to creating lasting, positive change in communities across the UK by making sport accessible to everyone.”

Interested in learning more about how your club or organisation can engage with our Climbz programme

Please use the link below to register your interest.

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