New 'Kindness Postbox' partnership

The Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network has launched a new partnership aimed at combating loneliness and isolation.

In collaboration with Whitehead Primary School and Radius Housing, the ‘Kindness Postbox’ partnership is designed to deliver small but meaningful acts of joy to those who need it most in the community.

The ‘Kindness Postbox’ project began in Enniskillen as a response to the isolation caused by the pandemic. With local care home residents facing strict lockdowns, the initiative sought to brighten their days by encouraging members of the community, especially children, to send uplifting messages through a ‘Kindness Postbox’.

This thoughtful exchange of letters, drawings, poems and cards has since evolved into a much-needed social bridge for residents and families alike.

Alderman Beth Adger MBE, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, emphasised the initiative’s power in spreading cheer and building connections within the community.

She Said: “Kindness Post-boxes are an incredible way to let local people share a little support with each other.  Allowing our children to think about care home residents in their community and write to them reminds them that someone is thinking about them.”

The project encourages children to get creative by writing letters or drawing pictures to share with residents of Radius Housing.

Once received, the letters and cards are carefully distributed to residents, brightening their day.

Marjorie Hawkins, Chairperson of the Loneliness Network, said the initiative holds a special significance for the younger generation.

She adds: “Residents in our care homes settings often have increased levels of loneliness and isolation. The letters and messages from the schoolchildren are small acts of kindness which can have a big impact on residents and can improve their well-being by keeping them connected with others”.

The Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, which launched in 2019, raises awareness about social isolation and coordinates action to address it.

The network brings together key organisations, including Council, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, as well as voluntary and community groups.

The ‘Kindness Postbox’ initiative is open to everyone. Individuals can contribute by writing a letter, drawing a picture, or sending an uplifting card. All submissions will be collected and distributed to care home residents, offering them much-needed moments of connection.

For more information on the Kindness Postbox initiative in Mid and East Antrim, please contact Alison Kane, DEA Officer for Carrick Castle, at alison.kane@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.