The festive season is often a time of joy and togetherness, but for some, it’s also a period of reflection that leads to major life decisions as they enter the new year. Family law firms regularly report a spike in the number of divorce related enquiries every January, and we see the same here at Fair-Result. This has led to the first working Monday of the year being dubbed ‘Divorce Day‘, for 2025, falling on 6th January 2025.
But is this a real trend? And what does the latest data reveal about divorce in the England today? Here at Fair Result we take a look at the latest trends in divorce across England.
Why January? Understanding the post holiday enquiries
The first quarter of each year is traditionally a peak time for divorces to commence, with firms reporting that January see’s the largest number of enquiries for divorce. So why is this?
- Festive Realisations: with couples spending more time together over the festive period it can often bring unresolved issues to light
- Cost of Living Pressures: the cost of Christmas as well as the ongoing cost of living crisis experienced by many can add further strain to an already fragile relationship
- Delaying for Family Reasons: many couples will wait until after the holidays to prioritise family time together during the celebrations
Whilst January does see a general rise in divorce enquiries, the latest statistics do tell a different story:
Divorce Trends in 2024
- January to March 2024 saw a total of 29,557 divorce applications being made, compared to the same period last year, this marks a 6% decrease
- April to June applications in 2024 reported a total of 26,928, and July to September 2024 resulted in a total of 27,003 applications
- The first 9 months of 2024, the total number of applications represented a 1.8% increase when compared to the first nine months of 2023
- The average age of divorce continues to increase, with the average age of men being 47 when they divorce in 2023 compared to 44 in 2013, and women being 45, compared to 42 10 years ago, this shift reflects the bigger picture of couple marrying later in life and the fact that more people are now reportedly single.
Does where you live Impact Divorce Rates?
According to ONS and Census data, coastal towns of England dominate the Divorce Capitals of England reporting the highest number of divorced individuals. Top of the list is Norwich which has 12.8% of its population determined as being previously divorced.
Top Divorce Capitals in England 2024
- Norwich: 12.8%
- Hastings: 12.1%
- Blackpool: 12.1%
- Lincoln: 11.9%
Based on the top 10 located for individuals, 90% of these are coastal towns.
Why Coastal Towns?
Several factors could be considered when assessing the number of divorced individuals that reside within coastal towns in England:
- Fresh Starts: coastal areas may attract individuals seeking a new beginning following their divorce
- Affordability: with lower living costs, this can often make coastal towns more appealing to individuals post divorce
- Demographics: many coastal towns have older populations which could increase the number of divorces and also some of the coastal towns often are reported to have high levels of deprivation
Regional Divorce Trends and ‘Divorce’ Searches
The team at Fair-Result have been doing some research over the festive period to explore the regions of the UK where the most people have searched ‘divorce’ during 2024. Top of the list comes the East of England with 30% of searches people 1,000 people carrying out divorce related searches on Google.
Here are the results per region of the UK for 2024:
- East of England: 30%
- East Midlands: 25%
- South West: 24%
- South East: 22%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 21%
- West Midlands: 20%
- North West: 19%
- Greater London: 13%
- North East: 12%
These patterns follow the national census data with the East of England, South West and South East containing many coastal towns and cities within England. Individual areas reporting the highest volume of searches in the top 10 are as follows:
- Essex: 50% (possibly inflated due to its inclusion in TOWIE)
- East Riding: 31%
- Lincolnshire: 30%
- Shropshire: 30%
- Lancashire: 30%
- Darlington: 29%
- Dorset: 29%
- Durham: 28%
- Kent: 28%
- Norfolk: 28%
How Likely are you to get Divorced?
The likelihood of divorce can be determined by many factors, but statistics reveal that most divorces occur between 3 to 8 years of marriage, with the peak being between 4 and 5 years. Couples who surpass 8 years of marriage are statistically more likely to remain married long-term.
However, the latest data does report an increase in the number of ‘Silver Splitters’ where divorces amongst those individuals aged 60+ have risen by over 23% in the last decade, reflecting the societal changes and attitudes towards later-life relationships.
How Long does it take to get Divorced in 2025?
With the introduction of The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 (effective April 6, 2022) the divorce process has simplified,removing the need for blame, evidence of adultery or periods of separation (find out more about the new process), but timelines remain substantial:
- Average time to conditional order: 31 weeks.
- Average time to final order: 42 weeks.
Support for those Facing Divorce
Divorce can be one of life’s most challenging experiences, emotionally, financially, and practically. While the process can feel overwhelming, we have many resources available to help you navigate this period and move forward confidently.
1. Understanding Legal Practice and Guidance
Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial during a divorce. Working with the right professionals can help simplify the process and ensure a fair outcome, here at Fair Result we specialise in offering transparent, cost-effective divorce solutions. Our innovative approach minimizes stress while ensuring fair outcomes for both parties.
2. Financial Planning and Advice
Divorce often brings significant financial changes, from dividing assets to planning for a new future. Proper financial planning can help you feel more secure and prepared. With our tailored financial advice, helping you understand and navigate the division of assets, pensions, and other financial considerations. Read more: Financial Advice and Divorce Settlements
3. Emotional Support
Divorce is not just a legal process—it’s an emotional journey. Seeking support from professionals and trusted networks can help you cope with the changes. Through our networks we can provide you with the advice needed and support required. If you are looking for information post divorce you can look at our partner site, The Divorce Magazine for more information and support.
4. Co-Parenting Support
For those with children, divorce often involves complex parenting decisions. Creating a co-parenting plan can help reduce conflict and prioritise the well-being of your children. Take a look at our Guide for Parents
5. Planning for the Future
After divorce, it’s essential to rebuild and focus on your future. Whether this involves securing housing, returning to work, or pursuing personal goals, resources are available to help you take the next steps confidently. Fair Result Limited offers guidance on rebuilding life post-divorce, including practical advice and planning strategies.
Next Steps
If you are considering a divorce in 2025 please contact the team here at Fair Result or call us on 0333 577 7009 for a free consultation. Alternatively you can access our Free Guide to Divorce
Regardless of how you contact the team we will work with you confidentially and provide you with the right advice and support during this time.
