The RNLI's lifeboat station in Portsmouth has been temporarily taken out of service following anti-migrant protests that occurred on September 6. The closure, which began on September 10, comes after protesters blocked roads in the city, prompted by the arrival of approximately 120 individuals at the Eastney Landing ferry port area after a small boat crossing in the Channel.
The RNLI confirmed its involvement in assisting both the arriving migrants and ensuring the safety of anti-migrant demonstrators who entered the sea. In the aftermath of the protest, the charity's chief executive, Peter Sparkes, stated that staff and volunteers had been subjected to "unacceptable" online and physical abuse. Similar abuse directed at volunteers also led to the temporary closure of the lifeboat museum in Poole for several days.
Search and rescue cover in the affected area continues to be provided through established contingency arrangements, including assistance from neighboring RNLI stations and other designated assets. The RNLI expressed hope for a swift return to normal operations at the Portsmouth station.
Sparkes issued a statement addressing recent events, aiming to counter deliberate misinformation and clarify the RNLI's role. He emphasized the lifesaving work conducted in the Channel and highlighted that volunteers and staff, who selflessly dedicate their time to public safety, had become targets of abuse. He urged public support for these individuals and their families, expressing pride in their vital lifesaving efforts.
The Portsmouth protest followed a similar demonstration in Dover the previous day, where masked protesters disrupted operations at the port. These events have prompted the RNLI to review its security procedures. As a precautionary measure, volunteers have been advised to consider not wearing RNLI-branded clothing in certain circumstances when representing the charity.