Hyper-local dating app happn has been analysing what effects the pandemic and resulting lockdown restrictions have had on British people’s relationships.
It surveyed just over 2,000 adults at the beginning of October and found that one-fifth of them had recently broken up with their partner. Almost 75% of these relationships ended because of reasons related to the pandemic, with disagreements over its seriousness being one of the most prominent.
Spending too much time apart is another new reason for breaking up, while some couples that were forced to lockdown together also noticed strains starting to appear.
The research was published as the UK headed into its second nationwide lockdown, and the happn team offered advice to try and protect more couples.
Marine Ravinet, Head of Trends at happn, said in a statement: “Lockdown is not to be underestimated, whether you’re going it alone or not.
“In the lead up to Christmas we want to feel a closeness and togetherness with loved ones – it’s only natural – so reach out to friends, family, or your Crush on happn if anything feels a bit too much this November. We’ll make it through, better and stronger than before.”
To help with the dangers of a second lockdown, happn extended its live video call feature and allowed UK singles to have a free one-hour video call with each of their matches. The update was first released in June but only supported five minute calls before the user had to pay.
Just under a half of the respondents said that their most memorable relationship ended either because they simply fell out of love or because the romantic spark had died out.
Visit the happn website here.