For a student leaving home for the first time it is the start of a new adventure, being independent, meeting new friends and gaining an education. But for the parents in can be a very anxious time as they worry if their children are safe out and about in the big wide world.
According to a study conducted by Aviva the main concerns are centred on their child becoming a victim of crime. With drinking in leisure commercial properties a big part of student culture, they could unwittingly be putting themselves at risk
37 per cent of parents worry that their child will be mugged and 22 per cent worry that they will be burgled – both of which could increase if the student is away from their property for a long period of time or intoxicated. But 38 per cent of parents worry their child will lose their valuable possessions, such as mobiles phones, laptops and MP3 players.
Another factor that parents worry about is their child on the road. Over half of parents are worried that their child will have an accident, whilst 32 per cent worry about the long drive from home to their halls of residence. Just under a third of parents surveyed also worry about distractions in the car such as other passengers talking or messing about and the music being too loud.
Speaking of the findings from parents, Aviva’s Underwriting Manager, Jonathan Cracknell said: “It’s only natural for parents to worry when their children fly the nest for the first time. Students are a high risk group when it comes to theft, and clearly safety and security are not the first things on their minds.
“On the road it is safety rather than crime that is concerning parents. Students will often be on unfamiliar roads and likely to have a car full of new friends, so it’s important that they don’t get distracted and take care, particularly when driving in bad weather.”
Are you are a student moving away from home for the first time next month? Have your parents sat you down and told you about their worries? Just remember to keep your valuables in a safe and secure place and take breaks when driving long distances in the car.
Previous Post
Libraries Under Threat in Latest Council Cut Backs
