ABC eyes new heights with focus on inclusion

The discussion focussed on how fostering inclusivity can have a positive impact on climbing communities, as well as increasing numbers of wall users.

Paul was joined by Sarah Jones, Senior Development Manager at Access Sport and Ismail Kholwadia, CEO of The Friendship Café. The discussion was moderated by El Temple, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Manager, ABC.

One of the highlights of the ABC calendar saw important figures from across the climbing community descend on Magna Science Adventure Centre for two days.  

Paul said:

"It was fantastic to be invited to share my expertise, and Activity Alliance’s insight, with such an engaging crowd. It’s vital that disabled people are given the same opportunity to be active and try out climbing just as non-disabled climbers are. The physical and mental health benefits are undeniable to an individual, but groups across the country would see an increase in numbers as well as a boost to community spirit."

Activity Alliance works with National Governing Bodies to assist their work with disabled people. In August British Ice Skating was awarded a significant funding boost from Sport England to launch a major disability participation initiative. We were proud to work alongside them to implement sweeping changes to their official learn to skate programme, Skate UK, with the addition of inclusive learning pathways. Paul added:

"National Governing Bodies exist to promote their sport, and it’s heartening to see many now putting in the work to ensure that disabled people are represented. Events such as the ABC conference show organisations are putting inclusion at the heart of their plans. People know how important it is, and we are here to support however we can."

To find out more about our work with National Governing Bodies, contact Paul by emailing paul@activityalliance.org.uk.