Letter writing: How we can help you Donate A Letter

Writing to a stranger, especially someone who is ill, can be daunting. But once you get the words flowing, it’s easier than you think. Here are some of the most common questions we’re asked, with all the answers you need.

How do I start? 

We’ve got ten great examples here to get you started. 

Imagine that you are writing or talking to a friend. Keep that warmth with you as you write your first words, and let the letter take you from there.

How do I sign off? 

We suggest that you end your letter by simply wishing your reader your best, along with your first name or initials.

Make sure you don’t put any pressure on the reader to reply. If you’re donating a letter, there won’t be a reply (although we are trialling a Thank You service at the moment).

There are some other examples here.

What sort of things can I write about? 

We ask that you don’t give cancer advice, as everyone’s experience is personal; not to mention religion as you don’t know the faith of the recipient; and not to say Get Well Soon as we don’t know the prognosis of your reader.

We’ve got some brilliant sample letters here that you can dive into, but remember this:

It’s what comes after that difficult opening paragraph that matters to the reader; this is the part of the letter that they’ll cherish. You only have to write the difficult first letter once, after that the others will be much easier.

I’m worried I’ll say the wrong thing. 

Believe us, it’s really hard to say the wrong thing. Strong political, social or religious views are best avoided as noted above, but imagine that the person you are writing to is a friend. The right intention will ensure the right tone.

There’s some great advice in this blog, but remember that it’s absolutely fine to say you’re sorry and that you don’t know what to say. It’s not what you say, more the fact you’re saying something that makes the difference.  

How much should I write? 

Write as much as you can, or would like to. That can be on a postcard, in a greetings card, on fancy notepaper, on lined paper, blank A4 paper… you get the point. It’s all OK.

Can I see some sample letters to give me ideas? 

Of course! We’re adding to the sample letters shared on the blog all the time, and here’s some to get you started. 

I’m not very good at writing, what else could I include? 

Pop a poem on the page, draw your view, or even cross-stitch the card. Whatever you feel comfortable with, the gift of your time and energy will always be well received.

We’ve put together some ideas here to help you. 

Do you have a letter I can copy? 

We’d always suggest you write your own - and feel free to use any of the resources above. 

However, we love that you want to write a letter so here’s a sample that you can directly copy. 

Make it your own as you wish, and hopefully that’ll lead to easier letters after you’ve cracked your first!