A post box allowing bereaved families and friends to leave letters to their late loved ones is now available at Hull’s Chanterlands Crematorium.
The white letter box, below, has been kindly donated by a local community group, which wanted those dealing with grief to have the chance to write to their dearly departed.
‘Creative Hands of Friendship’ supports local charities and good causes through funds raised from selling items that have been knitted, crocheted and crafted.
Organiser Sharon Sutcliffe said: “Our group put their talents to good use by filling up baskets with items they’d created, which were delivered to businesses and shops.
“The items were then sold, and the money raised allowed us to buy the beautiful cast iron post box.
“We hope this can make a difference, and hope it helps those who need to say more than ‘goodbye’.”
(The Lord Mayor, pictured right, unveiled the ‘Letters to Heaven’ post box at Chanterlands Crematorium. Councillor Cheryl Payne is pictured with Sharon Sutcliffe from ‘Creative Hands of Friendship’)
Specially prepared paper and envelopes that have been individually crafted by the group, seen below, are available at the crematorium office for visitors to use with the post box.
Richard Barker, Bereavement Services manager for Hull City Council, said: “The group were inspired by seeing similar ‘Letters to Heaven’ post boxes in other parts of the country, and how they’ve helped people deal with their sadness at what is always a very tough time.
“We thank them for their donation, which we are so honoured to accept.”
Councillor Rob Pritchard, Portfolio Holder with responsibility for cemeteries and crematoria, said: “It is fantastic to see people in Hull coming together to try to help others in any circumstances – but particularly when they’re going through losing someone close to them.
“This post box can bring much comfort to those who are grieving, whether they’ve lost someone recently or even a long time ago.”
The new letterbox at Chanterlands Crematorium is a similar offering to one already in place elsewhere in the city.
The box at Priory Woods Cemetery has different plaques to match the seasons, providing a sympathetic look to match the time of year.
You can find out more information about Hull Bereavement Services here.
