Spinnaker Tower lit up as 1,000 turnout to mark Parental Alienation Awareness Day
Over 1,000 people came out in support
The Spinnaker Tower was illuminated to mark Parental Alienation Awareness Day, with over 1,000 gathering in a show of solidarity.
The iconic tower was lit up in teal green at 7pm on Saturday (April 25) in a “powerful and emotional show of support” for PAPA (People Against Parental Alienation).
Following the success of last year’s event, which saw hundreds come together in solidarity, including people travelling from across the UK, Europe, and even the United States, this year’s gathering proved to be the biggest one yet. The international turnout highlighted just how “serious, far-reaching, and globally recognised” this issue has become, according to PAPA.
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Simon Cobb, founder of PAPA, who is from Portsmouth, said: “What was once a largely unseen and unspoken issue is now gaining increasing attention - driven by families, supporters, and advocates determined to ensure that children’s voices are heard and their relationships are protected.
“Parental alienation can result in children losing meaningful relationships with a parent and extended family, often with long-lasting emotional consequences. Despite its impact, it remains widely misunderstood, making visibility and public awareness more important than ever.”
The lighting of the Spinnaker Tower served as a “beacon of hope and resilience”, to bring this “hidden issue into the public eye” and sending a clear message that “no child should lose a parent through silence” and “no family should face this alone”.
Mr Cobb added: “We must shine a light on the abuse children and their parents are being put through. It’s time to expose this cruelty and give a voice to those suffering from parental alienation.
“Last year showed the strength of this community, not just locally, but globally. People travelled from across Europe and the United States to stand together. This is no longer a quiet issue. This is a growing international movement, and people are coming together to drive real change.
“Individuals and families from across Hampshire and the south east who have been impacted all stood together - united, visible, and heard.
“As awareness grows, so does the call for understanding, recognition, and better support for children and families affected. This is more than a gathering. It’s a statement.”
Supporters began the day at 5pm in Gunwharf Quays, where five PAPA volunteers undertook a dramatic and symbolic abseil down the Spinnaker Tower - raising awareness and demonstrating the emotional and physical resilience required to confront parental alienation.
Then the main gathering took place at Bath Square, Old Portsmouth, where attendees came together ahead of the tower illumination.
People had the opportunity to take part in recorded podcast interviews at the Still & West pub to help shine a light on a largely misunderstood issue that continues to impact families in silence.
The event culminated in a live performance by the band Kissed by Vultures, bringing energy, connection, and a sense of unity to a community often marked by isolation.
The event concluded at 11pm, closing a powerful day of awareness, connection, and advocacy.
Mr Cobb added: “The event was about reclaiming voices, restoring dignity, and standing together to say: children deserve safe, loving relationships with both parents wherever possible.
“If you’ve been affected, you are not alone. This is your community, and this is your moment to be seen.”
For details on PAPA go to: papaorg.co.uk/parental-alienation-awareness-day