Heating & health make for ‘happiness in December’

Aside from presents, research reveals the things in life we’re most thankful for, at this time of year, in the UK…

Topping the list was a warm, heated home (59 percent), followed by the health of family (58 percent) and your own health (50 percent). Half (49 percent) feel grateful for our NHS key workers, who continue to work hard over the festive period, while 38 percent felt lucky to have clean, safe drinking water.

Of those polled a fridge full of food, good friends and family – and neighbours and a tight knit community, were also things that those lucky enough to have them, are truly thankful for, according to the findings.

In fact, two thirds (62 percent) of the 2,000 Brits quizzed, believe Christmas is about more than just presents, shopping or tucking into a turkey lunch, while 77 percent feel contemplative at this time of year. Nine in ten (89 percent) regularly stop and feel thankful for everything they have at Christmas time. Four in ten (40 percent) admit they feel sad that key workers are missing out on spending the time with their family.

The study was commissioned by Hovis, who are giving away a free shopping voucher to all key workers, who are working through Christmas – from doctors and nurses to police and firefighters.

The research also found that three quarters (74 percent) are planning to make Christmas extra special this year because their family deserves a good one (50 percent), it’s been a tough year (43 percent) and they need to have something positive to look forward to (37 percent).

Mark Brown, Chief Marketing Officer at Hovis®:

“The research shows that this Christmas, Brits are reflecting on what truly matters. It’s not about the mountain of presents, but the warmth of loved ones, the comfort of home, and gratitude for the everyday blessings – especially those who keep us safe and well. That’s why we are giving back to our holiday heroes, recognising their sacrifices with a small token of appreciation.”

Spending time with friends and family (85 percent), eating and sharing food (62 percent), having the tree and decorations up (48 percent) and watching festive films (45 percent) are definitely on the nation’s to-do list this Yuletide.

*All key workers need to do is email Hovis with their name and job description. The voucher will be redeemable at leading supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Sainsburys.

Things the UK is grateful for at Christmas

1. a warm, heated home – 59%
2. family’s health – 58%
3. own health – 50%
4. NHS and key workers – 49%
5. good friends – 42%
6. good times with close family – 40%
7. clean, safe drinking water – 38%
8. a fridge and cupboards full of food – 33%
9. a loving partner – 33%
10. neighbours and community – 17%