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UK Wedding News

23/03/2017

Money Worries Put Pressure On Relationships

New research has found that financial worries is the top relationship difficulty experienced by couples in the UK.

The study, by charities Relate, Relationships Scotland and Marriage Care, revealed that 26% of adults named money as the main topic that puts a strain on their relationship.

This was followed by not understanding each other (20%), low libido/ differing sex drives (19%), lack of work life balance (17%) and different interests (16%).

The findings have been revealed in a new report – It Takes Two: The Quality of the UK's Adult Couple Relationships – based on a survey of more than 5,000 people.

The report also asked what people look for in a partner. Trust topped the list with 67% of respondents citing this factor. This was followed by communication (52%), commitment (37%), shared values (34%) and personality (28%).

Women were more likely to identify trust (70%) and communication (57%) as important factors than men (62% and 48%, respectively).

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Respondents were also asked about the quality of their relationship – with 16% of partners thinking about getting divorced/separated or ending their relationship at least occasionally.

Arabella Russell, Relate counsellor, said: "This report highlights that, despite the promise of economic recovery, money worries are still placing a significant strain on our relationships.

"We see in the counselling room every day how much conflict money can cause in relationships, so knowing how to manage your finances together is important for heading off arguments before they begin.

"The key is to be completely open and honest with each other about your values, feelings and spending habits. Make sure you're both clear on how you plan to share finances, pay bills and manage your spending."

Jenny Porter, Marriage Care Counsellor and Director of Client Services, added: "Usually when couples argue over money, it is because both individuals have very different spending habits.

"For example, one person may be more risk-averse and want to put more money away for retirement, while the other person may be more focused on spending for today.

"Although many couples find it awkward to talk about finances, it is essential to talk things through together to ensure both partners are on the same wavelength and to prevent problems from escalating.

"It is unsurprising financial worries are the top relationship strain experienced by couples as money affects many aspects of our lives. As in any dispute – whatever the subject – trust, compromise, flexibility and good communication are key to resolution.

"If couples are finding it hard to reach a positive solution together, help from an experienced relationship counsellor can and does make a difference."

(JP/LM)

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"New research has found that financial worries is the top relationship difficulty experienced by couples in the UK."