The Daily Mail has named Thanet as one of just 12 areas in the UK with a proportion of divorced people higher than 11 per cent. The eye-catching fact was revealed after a study of census figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

In 2011 around one in eight residents in our coastal towns, 11.9 per cent, were divorced. ONS’s figures show that divorcees appear to like to be by the seaside, with Blackpool topping the list at 13.1 per cent and all the other areas in the top 10 also dominated by seaside resorts.

The news has prompted the family team at Boys & Maughan to think about why the people we serve across the district are more likely than most to be victims of love on the rocks.

“The ONS statistics figures are fascinating,” said family law partner Jonathan da Costa.

“I don’t think any single reason can explain the numbers of divorcees living in Thanet. However, many clients we see from across the district and beyond are looking for help as a result of the stresses and strains caused by money worries. This is a common contributor to relationship breakdown, and given the relatively high numbers of local people on low incomes, it could partly explain the figures in conjunction with the increased financial pressure placed on the public generally in recent years.

“Another situation we often see is people of all ages who move to the coast in search of a new lifestyle or fresh start. There can be a realisation that a better life and new opportunities are available to them away from the city.

“Irrespective of the reasons behind a separation, the focus should be to keep things amicable and to reach lasting agreements without the need to go to court. The Collaborative process and mediation are becoming increasingly popular options when it comes to deciding how to discuss the legal issues which arise from a separation.

“The statistics focus on divorcees. It is likely that the phenomenon in Thanet is not confined to this group, as we are seeing increasing numbers of same-sex couples who wish to end their civil partnership union. The first civil partnerships in England & Wales were formed in December 2005 and some commentators are putting the general trend down to the so-called ‘seven year itch’, following the rush to tie the knot the following year.”

Boys & Maughan Solicitors help people find lasting solutions to their family problems. If you would like separation and divorce advice call 01843 234010 or drop us a line using our contact form.