• Harry, who lives in Leeds, wanted a new mobile phone ahead of starting secondary school in September, but was concerned about forgetting his number in case of emergency
  • After his mother, Jay, contacted O2, the company assigned a special personalised number that her son can easily remember
  • O2 also topped up the Pay As You Go SIM card and sent the boy, who has ADHD, a giftbox that included some special sensory stationary fit for his needs

O2 has provided a young Leeds resident with a personalised phone number that is easy for him to remember, after his mother contacted the mobile provider to say he was worried about forgetting his number in case of an emergency.

Harry will start secondary school in September and his parents wanted to get him a new phone. However, the family were worried that he would struggle to remember his number.

Upon hearing of the issue, O2 worked with the family to create a mobile number that he would find easy to remember, based on his preferences. The company also added a £10 Big Bundle to the SIM card, and sent Harry a box in the post featuring new pens, pencils and notepads that are fit for his needs, as well as a wireless charging pad and other gifts.

Axel Wehrle, Director of Customer Service at Virgin Media O2, said: “As soon as Jay contacted us about this, we knew we had to help create a number that her son could easily remember, especially as he’s about to start secondary school.

“It is our pleasure to have created a bespoke mobile number for Harry, and we also hope the other gifts we sent him will be helpful as he prepares to start at his new school. We wish him the best of luck in his studies.”

Harry’s mother, Jay, said: “When I contacted O2 I wasn’t really expecting a response, so it’s amazing that they’ve actually been able to make this happen and arrange a new personalised number for Harry.

“I’d like to thank them for the giftbox they sent as well – the stationary isn’t just a pencil case and some pens but they were sensory to any neurodiverse child so we really appreciate it. O2 has really exceeded my expectations.”

Anne, Harry’s grandma added: “It seems so rare these days that big companies do any philanthropic work, so well done O2. My grandson is delighted.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

  • The name of the boy has been changed at the family’s request.
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