Reviving the art of letter writing

A new initiative is encouraging people to revive the art of letter writing and the practice of having a pen friend.

“Letters Between Us is a community-focused letter writing initiative centred around slowing down, stepping away from screens, and reconnecting with the simple ritual of handwritten letters,” said Laura Kenefick, who is from Cork but is currently living in Corby, Northamptonshire, in the UK.

“People have really embraced the idea. I still have strong links to London, and I’m delighted to say we already have a London session booked for March with more interest building there too.

“The idea came from digital fatigue and a strong sense of nostalgia for how communication used to feel before constant technology particularly the joy of writing and receiving a letter, something many of us remember growing up,” she explained.

The project involves relaxed guided letter writing sessions hosted in local venues.

“People come together for a set time to write letters to themselves, to loved ones, or simply to reflect with all materials provided.

“There’s no pressure to share, no writing experience needed, and the emphasis is very much on calm connection, and taking a pause from busy modern life,” the Cork native said.

Letters Between Us officially began in January this year and has grown organically through word of mouth and community spaces.

“Alongside the sessions, I’m also gently piloting a pen pal exchange for Irish people living in the UK, pairing people with shared roots and experiences through handwritten letters,” Laura said.

“This is intentionally small and slow-paced and reflects the project’s overall ethos of quality over quantity.

“My hope is that it becomes something long-term and sustainable.”

She explained that she is currently working on building it step-by-step, after having been at home, raising her children, for the past few years.

“Letters Between Us has grown from that season of life, from wanting to create something meaningful, slower, and rooted in genuine connection,” Laura said.

“The reaction so far has honestly been wonderful.

“The Irish community both here in England and back home has been particularly encouraging, especially around the pen pal exchange element. It feels like the beginning of something very special.”

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