The desire to divorce and cost of living challenges

Over 1 in 8 married couples are considering a divorce this Christmas – although the Cost of Living crisis poses a barrier to them being able to pursue this, a new study has revealed.

The study by Law firm Slater and Gordon found that 12 per cent of married couples would like to get a divorce. However, 31 per cent of people admitted that the pressure of living costs was the main barrier in them being able to do so.

But despite this, over two thirds of people believe that with divorce, happiness and independence outweighs financial burden.

The data was collected in the lead up to Divorce Day in January. Also known as D-Day, it is said that the first Monday of the new year in particular brings in the most divorce claims annually. The data revealed how financial difficulties provide the main challenges for those who had delayed divorcing their partner, despite living amidst stress and unhappiness.

As well as the 31 per cent of people who said the pressure of cost of living had become the main barrier for them to act on a divorce, almost half – 48 per cent – admitted that the financial crisis has placed a strain on their marriage.

27 per cent had a lack of savings to fall back on; whilst 1 in 5 had stated debt was a major factor in their reason for not divorcing.

Christmas activities also contribute to heightened financial and emotional pressures, with 15 per cent of people becoming anxious about potential flash points. Christmas festivities, such as gifting, activities and spending time with family can all impact significantly.

However, divorce has been shown to be a crucial factor to happiness, with research showcasing divorcees experienced a significant improvement in their mental health after ending their marriage. 45 per cent of people found they had more time for themselves and felt financial freedom (34 per cent), both enabling reduced stress and autonomy.

In fact, over two thirds of people believe that with divorce, happiness outweighs financial burden.

Georgina Chase, Head of Family Law, says:

“Divorce can be seen as a frightening step to take, but there is no doubt that there can be clear positive outcomes that comes from it.

“As shown by this research, there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who feel trapped in an unhappy marriage. Many divorcees embark on a new chapter towards happiness and independence.

“It is possible to divorce with dignity, and to go through the process in a constructive manner, which will ultimately be in the best interest of any children involved and the family as a whole.

“Divorce enquiries increasing following the Christmas period with ‘D-Day’ in January is often because of spouses having wanted to preserve the special Christmas period for their children. The New Year is an opportunity for a new start and for them to start the process to move to independence if they are no longer happy in their marriage.