It was recently discovered that Yorkshire has one of the lowest divorce rates in the UK. In this article we explore the reasons why this might be.
Every year, thousands of UK couples seek the support of a family lawyer to bring an end to their marriage. According to The Office for National Statistics, in 2020 there were 103,592 divorces granted in England and Wales. In these regions, there are various grounds for divorce. Some of the most common reasons for divorce include unreasonable behaviour, adultery, arguing, financial disputes, or inequality.
Divorce rates are significantly different depending on the UK location. A recent study from Flower Card found that couples in Yorkshire ‘have one of the highest marriage success rates in the UK.’
The research focused on the factors that contribute to a happy marriage. One of factors that had a huge impact was where you live. It was discovered that North Yorkshire had an incredibly high marriage success rate of 91.39%. The results are certainly interesting, so why does Yorkshire have such a low divorce rate?
Why are young couples enjoying a low divorce rate in Yorkshire?
1. Quality of Life
Many different factors impact divorce rates. Reasons include infidelity, lack of intimacy or commitment, and conflict. Sometimes, relationships break down due to incompatibility or financial problems.
For most of us, our quality of life directly impacts our mood, emotions, and behaviour. When your quality of life improves, you’re more likely to thrive in your relationships.
Residents of Yorkshire can benefit from an excellent quality of life. In Yorkshire there’s beautiful scenery, with many idyllic spots to discover. Whether you like stunning architecture, charming gardens, or rugged coastlines, there’s plenty to explore.
2. Comfortable Salaries
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for marriages to break down due to financial difficulties. Struggling financially can put a lot of strain on an individual and a couple. As the cost of living rises across the UK, it’s becoming more difficult to find reasonable place to live. As it stands, Yorkshire is still a generally affordable location.
If both partners are earning a comfortable salary, couples can have a great life in Yorkshire, avoiding financial struggles. What’s more, the unemployment rate in Yorkshire has seen a recent decrease. According to data from ITV news, ‘in 2021, the unemployment rate in Yorkshire and fell by 0.4%’.
3. Community Feel
What other reasons could there be for the low-divorce rate in Yorkshire? Perhaps it’s due to the community feel?
Tight-knit communities often provide mutual support and encourage healthy relationships. Living in a place with a great sense of community can do wonders for your well-being and mental health.
The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) works to support various community projects in Yorkshire, specifically in the National Park. Any project that receives funding has provided long-term environmental, social, and community benefits. Recent SDF funded projects have included improvements to Raven Stonedale Community Heritage Centre and equipment for the prevention of rural crimes.
4. Divorce Rates are Higher in Cities
Why are couples enjoying a low divorce rate in Yorkshire? Generally speaking, divorce rates are higher in cities when compared to rural areas, towns, or counties. There’s been plenty of debate about why this might be.
Some argue that economic opportunity is a key factor. People who live in cities may have higher incomes than those who do not. (As most of us know, city life can be pretty expensive)! Getting divorced isn’t cheap, particularly starting out on your own after a breakup.
Living a city could mean more temptations and opportunities for infidelity, especially since the rise of online dating. For whatever reason, there’s some association between country life and a happy marriage.
5. Rates are Declining in General
According to the Yorkshire Post, UK divorce rates are at a 40 year low. These days it’s normal for couples to cohabit before getting married, a lifestyle choice that was less common for previous generations.
Cohabiting before marriage could mean building up a stronger relationship. It could also mean making the decision to part ways before entering into an incompatible marriage.
Will Divorce Rates Continue to Decline?
Maybe not! In April 2022, ‘no-fault divorce’ laws will come into effect. Previously, couples needed to choose out of five reasons for divorce. Under new legislation, partners will no longer need to offer any reason at all.
Currently, many divorcing couples must first go through a two-year separation period. Removing this rule means that many couples will be able to access an immediate divorce, without having to provide divorce grounds. Experts recommend that we may see a surge in divorces soon, as opposed to a decline.
Limiting restrictions will make divorces more appealing and accessible to many people. Regardless, it’s not advisable to make a final decision, without legal support from a divorce lawyer.
Where you live can significantly impact the success of your marriage. When cohabiting couples are choosing a place to settle, it’s maybe not a bad idea to bear this in mind. If you and your new spouse are looking for a charming place to call home, Yorkshire could be a worthy choice!
Images courtesy of pexels.com
