Becoming Accredited

With ABC Accredited status, you’ll be demonstrating your commitment to maintaining high standards in the indoor climbing industry, benefiting both your business and the climbing community.

If you own or operate an artificial climbing wall in England or Wales, this page contains everything you need to know to get started.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. You must be a registered business or non-profit organisation in the United Kingdom and operating in England or Wales. Climbing walls in Scotland and Northern Ireland will be able to apply from 1st of April 2026.
2. You must provide indoor climbing activities, such as top-roping, autobelays, leading and/or bouldering on artificial climbing structures.
3. You must hold appropriate insurance, which covers all areas of your operations. What is appropriate in terms of policy value depends on the scope and scale of your operations, and should be defined in collaboration with your insurers. However, at a minimum your policy must include both public liability and employers liability cover.

You do not have to be a member of the ABC to pursue Accreditation.

Application Process

The ABC Accreditation Programme is designed to be clear and straightforward, helping climbing wall operators demonstrate their commitment to high industry standards. Throughout the assessment process you’ll receive step-by-step support from the ABC.

1. Initial enquiry: register your interest or email [email protected] to receive the accreditation pack, which contains a detailed breakdown of the eight assessment principles, and everything you need to complete your application. 
2. Application: Complete and submit the accreditation pack, providing supporting documents such as the self-assessment checklist, example policies and risk assessments. You will receive support and feedback on your submission from the ABC.
3. Review and visit: an assessor will review your paperwork, discuss any potential issues, and once they are satisfied, they will arrange a site visit to see your policies in action.
4. Accreditation: Your Accredited status will be conferred after your site visit, if the assessor is satisfied that you meet the required standards and any queries have been resolved. If there are areas for improvement, you will receive detailed feedback and recommendations. You may be able to action these and proceed to Accredited status, or for significant changes you may be required to go through re-assessment.

Your ABC Accredited status lasts for three years and enables you to display your accreditation plaque and posters at your centre, and make use of our digital branding pack.

Programme fees and cost savings

Fees are determined by the size of the climbing centre and are spread over the three years of Accreditation.

Insurers see the accreditation as an excellent risk mitigator therefore do speak to your insurer about potential discounts on your policy for achieving accreditation.

The Accreditation scheme is supported by Lime Street and Partners& insurance brokers.

We can advise on costs and potential discounts for your wall – simply contact us to discuss.