The cost of living crisis is having an impact on the way couples, especially those with children, are managing their relationships, with potentially damaging consequences.
A survey of 2,000 adults in England and Wales considering divorce or dissolution reveals 60% of them view their situation today differently to how they saw it a year ago, with more than half (57%) saying they would consider postponing any split as a result of the current economic climate. This rises to 67% for 18-24-year-olds and to 73% for those who are married with dependent children.
The cost of living crisis is also having an impact on living arrangements for couples separating. Almost two-thirds of adults in England and Wales would consider remaining in the same property as their spouse post-divorce or dissolution. On average, those surveyed said they would consider remaining in the same property as their ex-spouse for 10 months.
The survey also asked respondents what is most important in separation settlements. While remaining amicable is important for 34% of respondents, more than twice that number – 71% – think the financial settlement should take their partner’s behaviour, such as being unfaithful, into account.
In terms of financial payments, 43% would not expect to split pensions payments in divorce or dissolution settlements.
Commenting on the findings by law firm Birketts, David Anstee, family law specialist at KWW Solicitors said: “The danger of delaying the divorce or dissolution process is that couples could be trapped in an unhappy or even toxic environment, which would be especially harmful if children were exposed to it.
“We would urge anyone in our local area who is considering divorce to take advantage of our fixed-price consultation to help them gain a better understanding of their position. Our role is to ensure a fair outcome for all concerned, from an emotional and financial perspective.”