Hearing dog charity asks daredevils to 'brave the drop' of Spinnaker Tower

Every step down the Tower will help transform the lives of deaf people like Laura from Havant, who is partnered with her hearing dog, a Cocker Spaniel called Griff.

Standing proudly on the waterfront since 2005, the Spinnaker Tower is one of the South Coast’s most recognisable landmarks. Those brave enough to descend its sail-shaped structure will be rewarded with spectacular views across Portsmouth Harbour.

Participants can choose from three abseil slots on the day - 9am, 10am and 11am. The cost to sign up is £95, with a minimum sponsorship target of £120. Places are limited, and anyone wanting to ‘take the plunge’ needs to register their interest by the end of March by visiting https://events.hearingdogs.org.uk/event/spinnaker26

Hearing dogs are expertly trained to alert deaf people to vital sounds such as smoke and fire alarms, alarm clocks, doorbells and even baby monitors. Beyond practical support, they provide constant companionship, confidence and independence - helping to combat the isolation many deaf people experience.

Laura, from Havant, lost her hearing at just four years old and was partnered with Cocker Spaniel Griff in 2019.

“Before getting Griff, I was living alone”, Laura explained. “When I wasn’t wearing my hearing aids, I could hear nothing, so I knew there were risks - like not being able to hear the fire alarm in my second-floor flat.

“I tried not to let my deafness hold me back though. I travelled widely, even though I once missed a flight when my vibrating watch failed and, on another occasion, missed my stop on a train after I didn’t hear an announcement telling passengers to disembark.

The greatest impact was at work”, continued Laura. “Academically I achieved good grades, and had high hopes for my career, but my hearing loss was a huge barrier. I couldn’t manage phone calls or large meetings, and I was too afraid to ask for help in case it cost me my job. At times, I felt isolated, lacked confidence and knew I wasn’t fulfilling my potential.”

At home, Griff provides reassurance and safety.

“He nudges me to tell me my alarm clock, the doorbell, or cooker timer are going off. Most importantly, he alerts me to the fire alarm. I trust him completely and have no back-up systems because he is so reliable.

“It isn’t just the practical support he gives me though. I have an intense emotional bond with him which brings enormous joy into my life, and I treasure him every single day.”

Laura now works locally in higher education, where Griff continues to make a difference.

“At work, Griff alerts me to fire alarms and serves as a constant, gentle reminder to colleagues and customers that I am deaf, which means they are more accommodating.

“My employer and colleagues have been incredibly welcoming, and Griff’s presence helps me feel seen, supported and able to thrive. In many ways, he advocates for me in a way I once struggled to do for myself.”

Jordan Chamberlain, Community Fundraising Manager at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “By abseiling the Spinnaker Tower, you won’t just be taking on an incredible personal challenge – you will be helping puppies grow into life-changing partners like Griff.

“Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a dog lover or simply looking for a memorable way to give back, this is your chance to make a real difference - one step over the edge at a time.”