Choose Respect: How NICAS supports Anti-Bullying Week

This Anti-Bullying Week (Monday 11th to Friday 15th November 2024), NICAS is proud to support this year’s theme, Choose Respect, which promotes kindness and inclusivity.

On Odd Socks Day on 12 November, we’re reminded that our differences make us unique and special. At NICAS, we aim to create a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for children and young people to explore climbing.

More Than Just Physical Skills

While our climbing award schemes teach skills like movement techniques and safe behaviour at a wall, the longer term benefits can be more profound. Climbing helps build confidence, develop teamwork, and strengthen communication. Our centres provide a space where children who have experienced bullying or isolation can experience small victories, gain confidence, and make positive connections with others.

Mental Health and Positive Connections

As we know, climbing isn’t just good for physical health—it’s also fantastic for mental health. The act of climbing releases endorphins, which help reduce stress, boost mood, and improve self-esteem. It provides children with an emotional outlet, helping them manage anxiety and feel more grounded. Climbing also encourages positive connections—whether it’s cheering on another climber, learning to communicate, or working together to solve problems. These positive interactions help to build respect, empathy, and kindness, and they support mental wellbeing by fostering a sense of belonging.

A Safe, Inclusive Space for All

Our safeguarding-trained coaches ensure that every session is a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether a toddler is balancing a beanbag on a hold or a young climber is pushing hard on a more challenging route, the focus is on celebrating every achievement, no matter how small. This inclusive approach helps children – especially those who may have been affected by bullying – feel valued and proud of their progress.

A Positive Influence for All

Climbing can be transformative for children who have exhibited bullying behavior. It encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and trust, helping to redirect negative emotions and promote healthier ways of interacting. As they overcome challenges, children gain confidence, appreciate their peers’ achievements, and are less likely to resort to aggression.

By providing a supportive environment, NICAS sesssions can allow kids to develop key social skills such as communication, patience, and empathy. Climbing fosters personal growth, shifting unhealthy behaviors toward more respectful interactions.

NICAS Chooses Respect

This Odd Socks Day, we encourage everyone to embrace their individuality and promote respect. Climbing with NICAS is about much more than developing skills—it’s about building confidence, forming positive connections, and creating a culture of respect.

Resources and Further Information

If you’re worried about bullying, or need advice or support, do check out these links:

• Anti-Bullying Alliance
• NSPCC Anti-Bullying Resources
• Kidscape: Help with bullying
• CPSU: Preventing bullying in sport