Monetary Pressures Can 'Strain' A Relationship

More consumers are preparing themselves for the strain their finances will see over the Christmas period, according to new figures.

In research conducted by Engage Mutual, 88 per cent of the Britons who share their finances with a partner state that they are willing to make monetary sacrifices to keep up a certain standard of living for their significant other. The study revealed that about one out of five are ready to work extra hours in order to provide their loved ones with the things that they want. Meanwhile, just under a third (30 per cent) are looking to cut back on buying luxuries for themselves, with the taking out of a loan another possible way in which to help them to give what their partner wants.

The survey also indicated that seven per cent of those in a relationship would be willing to borrow money, whether this be through a cheap personal loan, credit card or other means, to support their partners' wishes. Meanwhile, some 21 per cent state that they are prepared to withdraw funds out of a savings account.

In addition, findings from the firm revealed that men are most likely to make financial sacrifices. More than a third (35 per cent) of males are ready to go without buying new clothes and other luxuries, in comparison to 25 per cent of women. Meanwhile, four per cent of females would consider ending a relationship, if they felt that they were under pressure to stop buying things for themselves in order to provide for their partner.

Karl Elliott, 3GB spokesperson for Engage Mutual, said: "It is encouraging that rather than taking on further debt, people are prepared to work longer hours and cut back on spending in order to treat their partner. Increased financial pressure could put strain on some relationships. However, as this research shows, preparedness amongst couples to support each other financially shows that the population are prepared to go without themselves in order to provide for their loved ones."

The research also unveiled that 41 per cent of people from the north-east of England are willing to forgo clothes and luxuries in order to save more money to help keep their other half content. Those in the midlands are most likely to give up a night out on the town to cut back on spending, as such people account for 28 per cent of those from the region. Consumers living in Yorkshire, however, are the least prepared to do this, with only 12 per cent prepared to stay in to save cash.

Engage Mutual also pointed to research carried out by the Telegraph and uSwitch indicating that disposable income has reached its lowest point in a decade. And with the festive season just a few weeks away those who find that they are struggling to save money to help provide for their loved ones may find that a loan could be an answer to financial problems.

However, should consumers consider getting a loan, they may be advised to be upfront with their significant other. A recent study carried out by Cater Allen Private Bank earlier this week indicated that 30 per cent of consumers are keeping a financial secret from their partner, ranging from having a personal loan to a clandestine savings account. Managing director Richard Dunn reported that such secrecy indicates consumers are unwilling to talk about money, despite the fact that such discussions with loved ones can often act as the first step in people getting back on their fiscal feet.

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