A new initiative called “Letters to Heaven” has launched at Nottingham Road Cemetery, offering a dedicated postbox where people can write letters to those who they have lost.
Launched on November 29 by the Friends of Nottingham Road Cemetery volunteer group and Derby City Council, the postbox provides an opportunity for individuals to write a letter or card to a loved one, whether in remembrance of a special event, anniversary, birthday, or simply a personal note of remembrance.
The postbox also aims to support individuals with their mental health when processing grief and emotions during the bereavement process. By offering an outlet to speak to those who they have lost, Letters to Heaven provides a space for those who are navigating the loss of a loved one.
Inspired by a similar project in Chesterfield and Nottingham where a nine-year-old girl wanted to send a letter to her grandparent, the idea was brought to Derby. Derby City Council and the Friends of Nottingham Road Cemetery group worked closely with local businesses to make the project a reality, securing a donated post and signage for the cemetery.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety, and Leisure, said:
The Letters to Heaven postbox is a fantastic and innovative initiative which offers a compassionate and thoughtful way for people to remember their loved ones. It will help individuals in their grief journey by allowing them to have a space where they can write to loved ones.
I am incredibly proud of the work done by Council officers and the Friends of Nottingham Road Cemetery group to help residents in their bereavement journey. It has been brilliant to see such a positive response from the community, particularly with the post box already a quarter full since its introduction.
The letters are due to be collected on the last Thursday of each month, with the first collection scheduled for the end of January 2025, ensuring that Christmas messages remain in the box during the festive period. After collection, the letters will be composted and dispersed within the cemetery grounds, giving them a lasting tribute.
The opening of the postbox has been met with enthusiasm and support from the community, with attendees of all ages posting letters. The project has received positive feedback on social media and has even caught the attention of people outside of Derby, including a supporter from Scotland who sent letters to be posted.