• New research by O2 for O2 Home reveals that when it comes to getting away for a Christmas break Britain is a nation of worriers, as more than half of us report being anxious about leaving their homes for the holidays
  • One in ten have cut a break short to return home to check their property
  • Two thirds are keen to be able to monitor their homes while they’re away, with the ability to see pets more than twice as popular than keeping an eye on teenagers home alone

New research released today by O2 for O2 Home – a new smart technology service providing customers with greater control of their homes from one easy app – reveals that when it comes to Christmas breaks, the UK is a nation of worriers, as more than half of those surveyed claim to feel anxious about leaving their homes over the holiday period.  Festive fretting is so great 12 per cent of Brits even returned home early from a trip to check on their property, with the biggest concerns being leaving the door unlocked and being broken into.

Two thirds of those surveyed admitted they’d like to be able to check on their homes while they’re away. Of those, 43 per cent would like to be able to check in to make sure everything back home is ok, to stop them worrying about things like burglary.  A further 20 per cent want to keep an eye on their pets’ antics which is more than those wanting to monitor teenagers left home alone, showing that pets really are a man’s best friend.

With O2 Home, this Christmas it’s easier than ever for our customers to have peace of mind over their Christmas break.
Nina Bibby, CMO at O2

The results come as O2 Home introduces new smart technology bundles, starting at £15, for greater control of your home within one easy app.  O2 Home comes with a choice of three packages which contain the latest smart home devices along with professional installation, an annual health check and on-going support.

As well as being able to check in on their homes while they’re away, just under half of Brits also want greater control of their energy usage.  Sixteen per cent admitted to having forgotten to turn off their heating whilst away and a third claimed to have argued with family members about their home while they’re away over the Christmas break with wasteful use of energy being among the most common causes.

Nina Bibby, Chief Marketing Officer at O2 said:  “Our research reveals that as a nation our homes really are our castles and people want more control of their properties whilst they’re away over the Christmas holidays. With O2 Home giving people an easy way to control their heating, lighting, locks and more all within one simple app, this Christmas it’s easier than ever for our customers to have peace of mind over their Christmas break.”

Behavioural Psychologist, Jo Hemmings said: “The psychological benefits of a winter get away to the sun or to spend quality time with family and friends should not be underestimated.  With increasingly busy and pressured lives it’s even more important to take time to switch off and recharge your batteries.  Using smart technology is a great way to free up your time from daily worries, while providing the reassurance that we all need when away from home, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy yourself.”

To find out more about O2 Home visit http://home.o2.co.uk.

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