‘Postboxes to Heaven’ are to be provided at Antrim and Newtownabbey cemeteries

By Michelle Weir
Published 8th Mar 2023, 12:46 BST
Updated 12th Mar 2023, 18:11 BST
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A “postbox to Heaven” is to be installed in Antrim and Newtownabbey’s cemeteries to help children grieve.

The proposal was made by Deputy Mayor Councillor Leah Smyth, an Antrim representative, during a meeting of the council’s Operations Committee on Monday.

Cllr Smyth explained she was inspired by nine-year-old Nottingham girl Matilda Handy who suggested the idea as a way of expressing her emotions after her grandparents passed away.

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An old postbox painted white was installed at Gedling Crematorium, in Lambley, where Matilda’s mum Leanne works.

It is hoped the postbox would be of benefit to children who have had a recent loss and are struggling with their grief.It is hoped the postbox would be of benefit to children who have had a recent loss and are struggling with their grief.
It is hoped the postbox would be of benefit to children who have had a recent loss and are struggling with their grief.

As a result, Cllr Smyth said the schoolgirl was comforted by the idea of being able to send letters to her deceased grandparents.

“It is just a nice sentimental gesture. The response was overwhelming.”

Cllr Smyth said it would be of benefit to children who have had a recent loss and who are struggling with their grief.

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