Four members of the Unicard team have braved a 10,000ft skydive to raise money for charity.

Amy, Ginette, Nasir and Lloyd from Unicard’s Poole office took part in the skydive to raise £3500 to fund the Diverse Abilities annual Santa grotto, so that hundreds of children with complex needs can meet Santa at Christmas time.

On their big day, the team headed to Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury, where the company GoSkydive offers tandem skydives for newcomers to the sport.

The day started with a training session, before the Unicard team were helped into their jumpsuits and safety harnesses.

The tandem skydive instructors took them to the plane waiting on the airstrip, where each member of the Unicard team secured themselves to their skydive partner’s harness ready for the big jump.

At 10,000ft above the Wiltshire countryside, it was time for the team to take turns exiting the plane while attached to their instructor – freefalling for about 30 seconds before their instructor opened their chute at 5000ft to glide down for the rest of the descent.

After completing the skydive, Lloyd, Unicard’s Finance Controller, said: “Taking the leap (literally!) was truly an unforgettable experience, and knowing it was all for a good cause made it even more meaningful.”

Nasir, our Head of IT and Security, said: “This wasn’t just about the adrenaline rush (though that was incredible), it was about raising awareness and funds for a cause I truly care about. The generosity and support from friends, colleagues and connections have been overwhelming. Thank you to everyone who contributed and encouraged me along the way.”

HR Manager Amy explained: “This year we were keen to step outside of our comfort zone to raise funds in support of the fantastic work that Diverse Abilities undertake. Jumping out of a plane from 10,000ft was certainly outside of our comfort zone.

“Fear, anxiety, doubt, adrenaline, excitement, relief and pride – all in the space of 30 minutes. It was an experience I will remember for a long time.”

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, is the Unicard Poole office’s chosen charity this year.

Diverse Abilities has supported children and adults with profound physical and learning disabilities across the county since 1955. Its work includes running a school for young children and teenagers who have disabilities and complex medical needs. It also provides adult services ranging from 24/7 supported living to physio and other activities.

The Santa Grotto gives hundreds of children with complex needs the opportunity to meet Santa in an environment that accommodates their needs. It is an experience and memory that is precious for both the children and their families.

Unicard agreed to match the funding raised for the skydive through donations, and this means the £3500 target has been reached.

However, anyone who would like to support the skydive fundraising effort can still donate on the JustGiving page here: JustGiving.