Supergirl skydive: Co Antrim mum to take 10,000ft leap for NSPCC NI

Sylvia McNamee from Straid, near Ballyclare.

A fearless mum-of-two from Co Antrim is preparing to leap from a plane at 10,000 feet – dressed as Supergirl – in a bid to raise vital funds for NSPCC Northern Ireland.

Sylvia McNamee, from Straid near Ballyclare, will take part in the daring challenge on Sunday, 28 September, at Skydive Ireland, near Coleraine.

The Newtownabbey Matalan store manager is swapping the shop floor for the skies in honour of NSPCC staff and volunteers, whom she describes as “heroes”.

“Sometimes a child needs a ‘hero’ – someone to talk to and help them if they have a worry, or are in danger,” Sylvia explained.

“The work that the NSPCC does to help protect young people and be there for them is amazing. The charity provides a vital service for both parents and children, and the people who work and volunteer there are real heroes.”

Nerves and determination

While the skydive promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, Sylvia admits it is pushing her far outside her comfort zone.

“I’m definitely not an adrenalin seeker and I’m actually very nervous,” she said.

“I climbed the ladder in work last week to hang something and thought, ‘If I’m scared now what will I be like jumping out of a plane’,” she laughed. “But I’m determined to do it.”

Supported by her colleagues at Matalan, who regularly organise in-store collections for the NSPCC, Sylvia was keen to take on something bigger to make a difference.

“We regularly hold collection days in the store, but I wanted to do something more,” she said. “So many children need help and protection, and many parents worry about their children’s safety – especially online.”

Raising awareness and funds

Having previously volunteered with NSPCC NI’s Schools Service, Sylvia is also keen to raise awareness of the support available for children and parents.

She advised: “Educate yourselves and talk openly to children about dangers online and ensure that they know that the NSPCC service, Childline, is there for them 24/7. Don’t be complacent. Check your child’s device regularly and contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice or if you have any concerns.”

Although nervous, Sylvia says she is also excited about taking on the role of a superhero for the day.

“It’s not every day you get to be Supergirl and jump out of a plane,” she added. “And all the money raised will help protect children in Northern Ireland, so I am looking forward to it – a little bit,” she laughed.

How to support Sylvia’s Supergirl Skydive

Donations can be made online at Sylvia’s JustGiving page or in person at Matalan, Newtownabbey, where collection buckets and a QR code are available.

The NSPCC, the UK’s leading children’s charity, provides life-changing services including Childline (0800 1111), which is available 24/7 for children and young people under 19.

Adults seeking advice or to report concerns about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.