Relate survey indicates 20% of couples consider separation

Almost one in five couples in the UK argue regularly or consider separating

A recent study carried out by the charity Relate suggests that2.87 million people were in distressed relationships based on a survey of 20,980 people in relationships from 2013 - 2015. Questions such as how often they argued, how frequently they considered divorce and how frequently they regretted their relationship were asked.

The research also found:

• One in 10 partners reported at least occasionally regretting getting married or living together, while 9% said they at least occasionally considered divorce or separation.
• Nearly half (49%) of partners reported at least occasionally quarrelling, with 6.8% reporting severe levels.
• Parents of children under 16 were slightly more likely to be in distressed relationships (22%) and becoming a parent for the first time was "one of life's events most likely to reduce relationship quality."

The quality of our relationships has significant consequences for partners, children and across wider society. The report highlights that the distress coming from unhealthy relationships can have far reaching negative repercussions beyond just the partners involved. Children growing up with parents who have low parental conflict enjoy better physical and mental health, better emotional wellbeing, higher academic attainment and lower likelihood of engaging in risky behaviours, whilst those whose parents have poor relationship quality have more externalising behaviour problems.

The Office for National Statistics identifies relationships as a domain which influences subjective wellbeing and includes satisfactions with family and social life.

To read the report in full please click here. If you would like any advice in relation to separation or divorce then please contact a member of our family team.

This article is for general guidance only. It provides useful information in a concise form. Action should not be taken without obtaining specific legal advice.