Survey For 'Divorce Day' Finds High Proportion Of Parents Consider Separation

As many as one in four parents in the UK have privately considered separating from or divorcing their partner, new research from relationships support charity OnePlusOne has revealed.

The poll was carried out to mark January 2nd, dubbed "Divorce Day" in legal circles because so many couples contact lawyers on this day to file for divorce.

While around 60% of people in a relationship have had relationship problems, the survey found that a quarter have never asked friends or family for help.

The charity urged people who are considering a separation to visit its website for resources and help on dealing with relationship problems.

"People rarely decide to separate or divorce suddenly – often they’ve been thinking about it for months, if not years," said Penny Mansfield, Director of OnePlusOne.

Expert Opinion

This research mirrors the results from Irwin Mitchell’s own investigations into this issue, with our recent survey showing that one in five couples were planning to divorce after the Christmas period and instructions in relation to divorce being up 27 per cent in January 2014 when compared with an average month. <br/> <br/>"These reasons behind this surge can vary but ultimately many people in unhappy relationships choose to make separation plans for the New Year after having one last Christmas as a family. In addition, some simply decide that the festive period is the last straw and – ultimately – that they want to make a fresh start. <br/> <br/>"Whatever the reasons are behind a separation, it is vital that people seek specialist advice to ensure that they have the right guidance as they look to do what it best for themselves and their children."