By Andy Merrett
Feb 4, 2010
Improved marriage counselling can cut divorce rate
That headline sounds almost obvious, right?
We know that you can prove most things with statistics, but having said that, some interesting new figures have come from the UK’s Office of National Statistics…
The number of divorces in England and Wales decreased 5% in 2008 compared to the previous year, while in Scotland it was a 10% drop, and 4.8% in Northern Ireland.
Though the figures can’t paint the whole picture, experts believe that better counselling may have improved the figures.
It’s worth bearing in mind that these statistics don’t include couples that are living together unmarried, and there could be a range of other factors involved. However, it would be good to think that struggling couples are seeking advice and help, and that in an increased number of cases it’s working.
What we don’t know is how the economic crisis will affect rates in subsequent years. There have also been suggestions of a two per cent rise in the UK divorce rate this year.
Over To You
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I totally agree that better counselling could cut the divorce rate. It amazes me that governments pour millions into Courts but precious little into mediation, counselling and other useful approaches.
Of course, there are cases where the Courts and a tough approach are needed–we’ve all met the totally unreasonable spouse!
But this blog gives my views:
Andrew Woolley
Divorce Solicitor
[...] affect couples in England and Wales.There’s no doubt the UK divorce rate is rising, after a drop in the late noughts.Mediation won’t help the increasing number of people living in abusive relationships with [...]