New ‘letters to loved ones’ post box opens at Bury Cemetery

A new post box for loved ones to post letters to their friends and family has opened in Bury Cemetery.

Bereavement Services were approached by several members of the community to request that a post box be installed within the cemetery to write cards and letters to their family members who have passed away. Residents felt this would help with their own grieving process, and this is something which has been very welcomed in other cemeteries throughout the country.

Our ‘Letters to loved ones’ post box is now open and available at Bury Cemetery. We are hopeful this will bring comfort to anyone dealing with their own bereavement journey.

Every letter or card put into the post box is treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. We will not open, read or respond to any letters posted. In time, they will be composted down and used to promote growth within the cemetery grounds.

The Mayor of Bury, alongside local councillors, parents Lisa and Trevor and their family, who first approached Bury Cemetery about installing a post box, gathered together to officially open the post box.

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Noel Bayley, said: “Losing someone you love is one of the hardest and most difficult parts of life. I sincerely hope that this post box provides a healthy outlet for our residents to express their grief and feel closer to their loved ones, friends and family.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, support is available.

Bury Hospice hosts a monthly bereavement drop-in group at Radcliffe Library: https://www.bury.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives/libraries-news-and-events/bereavement-drop-in-group-at-radcliffe-library-1

Greater Manchester Bereavement Service can help find the right support for you: https://greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk/