The loo’s engaged – because we’re on the phone

BRITONS have become so hooked on their mobiles that staggering numbers check them on the toilet, in bed – and even during sex.

Three-quarters of people aged 25 to 30 have texted, emailed, used apps or surfed the internet while on the loo, while an astonishing one in six confessed to checking social media while making love. Two-thirds of 25- to 34-year-olds say they delayed or refused sex so they can use their phones, while 14 per cent said they had even answered a phone call during the throes of passion.

Broadcaster and psychologist Corinne Sweet said: ‘Many of us are glued to our gadgets in an almost addictive way.

‘Our unthinking dependency on them is actually getting in the way of being intimate, including even having sex.’

The findings also reveal that almost one in five people admitted they often texted someone who was in the same room, rather than going to speak to them. And one in six spend more time on their phones during a typical week than they do talking to their partners.

Ms Sweet added: ‘Incessant phone use interferes with communication flow. It can also erode trust, honesty and closeness between partners, friends and family. Taking a phone break, especially in the bedroom, is definitely important for our mental health and wellbeing.’

The survey of 2,000 phone-users for insurers Love It Cover It found that the average Briton spends half an hour using their phone or tablet in bed, but that rises to 90 minutes for those aged 25 to 34.