We’re thrilled to share that YMCA Taunton is in the final stretch of creating something truly special for our community: a brand-new indoor climbing hall. This isn’t just about walls and ropes – it’s about building confidence, physical fitness, and a safe space where young people can push themselves and feel empowered.
We need your help!
👉 Support our crowdfunder here: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ymca-taunton-climbing-hall
Taunton Climbing Wall Project
Since July 2024, we’ve been working on transforming an unused space into a vibrant climbing hall. Thanks to our successful YIF Grant, the foundation is laid, the walls are built,the structure is ready and Kong Climbing will be setting the internal climbing walls imminently! What’s missing is a key piece of safety equipment: auto belay systems — the devices that let climbers ascend and descend safely, even without a human belayer.
Each auto belay costs £3,300, and originally we planned to install 15 of them (allowing up to 15 people to climb simultaneously). Due to unexpected costs elsewhere in the build, we currently have funding for just 6. We’re raising funds to install one more to start with, and then go further if we can. We’ve already received a fund matching pledge from Sport England for £1,650 — but to unlock that, we need £1,650 more, and at least 25 supporters in total.
Why it matters
- This will be the only public climbing wall in Taunton, bringing affordable and adventurous activity to people of all ages.
- Climbing builds more than muscle — it builds resilience, concentration, teamwork, and self-belief.
- Importantly, it gives young people and local groups access to a facility they might not otherwise afford or reach.
- It’s part of a wider vision: a refreshed YMCA Taunton site featuring multi-use spaces, a digital studio, and a training kitchen — all geared to support skills, creativity, connection, and inclusion.
How you can support us
- Make a pledge now – don’t delay as early support helps the project gain traction.
- Share widely – please share on social media, email friends, tell local groups or climbing enthusiasts.
- Offer rewards or in-kind support – if you run a business, offer something we can use as a thank-you reward (e.g. vouchers, goods, experiences).
- Run your own mini-fundraiser – get creative — a sponsored walk, bake sale, or coin collection.
Rewards
In addition to knowing you are supporting a worthwhile cause, the Crowdfunder page offers rewards for donating, including:
- Discounted squash, pickleball, badminton, astro and short tennis sessions
- Discounted room hire
- Nando vouchers
- Buying climbing sessions for others
- Be the first person to publicly climb the wall
- Name one of our auto belays
- Name our climbing hall!
Timeline & Events
We’re running the crowdfunder for 8 weeks and its scheduled to close at midday on Thursday 18 December. We will be running the following events that will directly support our crowdfunder:
- Rug Sale – 10-14 November 2025
- Quiz Night – 28 November 2025
Donate now!
Thank you for believing in our vision and for helping us build something that will benefit the community for years to come.
👉 Support our crowdfunder here: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ymca-taunton-climbing-hall
