Platonic co- parenting has become increasingly popular in recent times with matchmakers coming across many individuals who are already co-parenting a child with a platonic friend or have plans to do so.
With so many women focusing on their career in their 20's and early 30's - it causes so much anxiety when they hit their mid 30's and feel
Platonic co- parenting has become increasingly popular in recent times with matchmakers coming across many individuals who are already co-parenting a child with a platonic friend or have plans to do so.
With so many women focusing on their career in their 20's and early 30's - it causes so much anxiety when they hit their mid 30's and feel in a rush to find the 'one' - rather than enjoying their dating journey and taking their time to discover someone they can embark on a meaningful relationship with.
Whilst it's highly complex in its legal implications, if you have a long term mutual friend who also wants to have a child it can be a joyful decision to make.
Read more about platonic co-parenting here.
According to The Trainline SinglesLong-distance relationships are in crisis: Half of them don’t last a year, and a third break up within just six months, new research from Trainline confirms.
Despite over 40% of Brits (20 million people) having tried long-distance dating, most relationships end in heartbreak. Women are also twice as reluc
According to The Trainline SinglesLong-distance relationships are in crisis: Half of them don’t last a year, and a third break up within just six months, new research from Trainline confirms.
Despite over 40% of Brits (20 million people) having tried long-distance dating, most relationships end in heartbreak. Women are also twice as reluctant as men to even consider a long-distance relationship.
The biggest deal-breakers? Sky-high travel costs, emotional strain, and the exhausting effort of planning visits.
Trainline is also providing £10 off journeys with the promo code LOVEONTRACK for tickets However Matchmakers - encourage singles to keep their mind open to meeting people not local - as you are more likely to find someone more rapidly if you have a wider remit.
The latest trend seems to be getting yourself banned from the Hinge dating app. From inappropriate behaviour to ghosting or being accused of soliciting services there are many reasons for getting yourself banned from Hinge.
Whilst some users have had their accounts suspended others have literally been banned - and its rife, these are ever
The latest trend seems to be getting yourself banned from the Hinge dating app. From inappropriate behaviour to ghosting or being accused of soliciting services there are many reasons for getting yourself banned from Hinge.
Whilst some users have had their accounts suspended others have literally been banned - and its rife, these are everyday people, friends, clients, other matchmakers!
There would be some that say, about time, bad behaviour should be called out and drastic measures need to be taken in the dating app arena because it really is appalling. However, there are concerns that they are going for the wrong people to ban - whilst the scammers are still preying on the vulnerable.
We are waiting on a statement from the Hinge management - watch this space!
Singles are increasingly ditching dating apps for traditional methods to find partners, according to a report by Novuna Personal Finance. The study shows 53% of Brits prefer meeting in person, rising to 57% among under-25s, due to concerns about the rising costs of dating apps.
This trend is impacting the dating app industry, with Bumble s
Singles are increasingly ditching dating apps for traditional methods to find partners, according to a report by Novuna Personal Finance. The study shows 53% of Brits prefer meeting in person, rising to 57% among under-25s, due to concerns about the rising costs of dating apps.
This trend is impacting the dating app industry, with Bumble seeing a significant decline in Gen Z users and laying off 30% of its staff. Despite this, 75% of dating app users are serious about finding a life partner, though 31% swipe out of boredom. Over-45s are half as likely to use apps but enjoy a higher success rate.
Explore more insights on dating trends and discover effective alternatives to dating apps on our website. Learn how to meet someone special without relying on dating apps.
ALMOST half of UK singles admit they are not ‘entirely authentic’ on dating apps. The new study from eharmony reveals just 12 per cent of daters believe others portray themselves authentically on apps when looking for love, while three in ten do not expect people to be authentic at all.
One in five also admitted to editing their profile
ALMOST half of UK singles admit they are not ‘entirely authentic’ on dating apps. The new study from eharmony reveals just 12 per cent of daters believe others portray themselves authentically on apps when looking for love, while three in ten do not expect people to be authentic at all.
One in five also admitted to editing their profile picture.
The poll also revealed that UK Millennials are the most likely by far to carry baggage from previous relationships, with almost a quarter not over a past love. Gen X are the most scared of rejection, with two in five worried about being rebuffed by a potential date.
Menopausal women report having more confidence and feeling more care free then ever before, according to the research by the over 50s dating app, Ourtime.
Menopausal women report having more confidence and feeling more care free then ever before, according to the research by the over 50s dating app, Ourtime.
It also emerged that of the 28% who are single, 16% are more likely to unapologetically ask for what they want from a relationship – because they know themselves better now compared to before.
23% of single women were initially concerned about the impact menopause would have on their dating life, however, the good news is that one in four (26%) admitted they needn’t have worried.
OK Cupid has introduced a new tool to help users remove photos of their ex from social media feeds. Called the "ex-terminator," this AI-driven tool, developed by tech firm Photoroom, lets users 'paint' over their ex, with the AI seamlessly filling in the background.
This service was launched following research showing that 62% of single wo
OK Cupid has introduced a new tool to help users remove photos of their ex from social media feeds. Called the "ex-terminator," this AI-driven tool, developed by tech firm Photoroom, lets users 'paint' over their ex, with the AI seamlessly filling in the background.
This service was launched following research showing that 62% of single women have cherished photos spoiled by a former partner. Additionally, two in five singles expressed a desire to erase an ex from photos to help move on from a breakup.
Michael Kaye, Director of Communications at OK Cupid, stated, “To help users get their dating profiles summer-ready, we’ve partnered with Photoroom to ensure their exes aren’t ruining any good photos.”
The tool is free to use and can be found at photoroom.com/erase-your-ex.
A new study from Forbes Health explores dating app burnout, finding that 79% of Gen Z have experienced exhaustion from online dating. .
Dating app burnout – who and why?
Dating app burnout, defined as feeling emotionally, mentally or physically exhausted by dating apps, has been experienced by 78% of respondents either sometimes, often or a
A new study from Forbes Health explores dating app burnout, finding that 79% of Gen Z have experienced exhaustion from online dating. .
Dating app burnout – who and why?
Dating app burnout, defined as feeling emotionally, mentally or physically exhausted by dating apps, has been experienced by 78% of respondents either sometimes, often or always, the study found.
79% of Millennials and Gen Z reported that they have experienced dating app burnout sometimes, often or always. For Gen X and Baby Boomers, the rate is 77% and 69% respectively.
The 'Cuffing Season' is an expression used for the period of time when single people look for short-term Mr/Ms 'right now' situationships through the colder months. It usually begins in October and ends around Valentines day. This year the cuffing season has taken on a life of its own, with a full schedule of phases: from scouting, draft
The 'Cuffing Season' is an expression used for the period of time when single people look for short-term Mr/Ms 'right now' situationships through the colder months. It usually begins in October and ends around Valentines day. This year the cuffing season has taken on a life of its own, with a full schedule of phases: from scouting, drafting, and try-outs, all the way to the finals and the big cuff. Is it worth exploring and how should singles navigate it "should" navigate it? 'Smarty's have come up with a 5 tip plan to ensure cosying up with the right person this winter by using your data wisely to vet potential dates - a little digital research can help make sure you’re making the right connection,
1. Check out your mutual friends
Before you commit to that first date, do a quick check to see if you have mutual friends on Instagram or Facebook. To give extra insight.
2. Suss out the chemistry with a video call
Why waste time on unsuccessful dates? Get a feel for your potential partner by hopping on a quick video call.
3. Drop that emoji
Don’t be shy – drop a fire emoji under their latest post or react to their story with a heart. A little confidence can go a long way, so be bold, brave, to give the hint and start engagement.
4. Get date night inspo on TikTok
A fun “out-of-the-box” date night is a great way to breeze through the drafting season. For ideas, TikTok is your go-to!
5. Watch an episode of their favourite show
Before you go on that date, why not check out an episode of their favourite series? It’s a great way to see if you have compatible thinking.
Cyber experts warn that dating apps often request excessive data, posing privacy risks. NordVPN found that these apps ask for an average of 23 permissions, many unnecessary, including sensitive biometric data. Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN, expressed concern over the lack of legitimate purpose for many of these pe
Cyber experts warn that dating apps often request excessive data, posing privacy risks. NordVPN found that these apps ask for an average of 23 permissions, many unnecessary, including sensitive biometric data. Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN, expressed concern over the lack of legitimate purpose for many of these permissions, which are often used for targeted advertising.
Protect Your Privacy on Dating Apps:
A new poll has discovered that 1 in 5 couples don’t celebrate Valentine's Day at all
The majority (65%) of UK adults enjoy going out on their own
Singletons are less stressed than ever about coupling up, with just 3% of people in the UK even interested in finding dates for Valentine's Day through dating apps. Even those coupled up are less
A new poll has discovered that 1 in 5 couples don’t celebrate Valentine's Day at all
The majority (65%) of UK adults enjoy going out on their own
Singletons are less stressed than ever about coupling up, with just 3% of people in the UK even interested in finding dates for Valentine's Day through dating apps. Even those coupled up are less inclined to celebrate. 1 in 5 couples reveal they don’t celebrate at all, only 13% exchange gifts and just 1 in 10 whisk their partners away for a romantic weekend.
New research from Mobility Super App, FREENOW, reveals that couple stuff is out and spending time by yourself is in, with two in three (65%) UK adults enjoying going out on their own.
Although finding love may have fallen off people’s list of priorities, almost half (46%) of singles say they still feel prejudice in social situations.
OWNING a pet can up your chances of securing a successful love match.
Almost half of daters like a would-be lover to own a dog, while 31 per cent prefer a partner with a cat.
Other animals attracting singles’ eyes include rabbits and fish, loved by seven per cent, while one in 25 looked for a lover with either a horse or pet bird.
Women a
OWNING a pet can up your chances of securing a successful love match.
Almost half of daters like a would-be lover to own a dog, while 31 per cent prefer a partner with a cat.
Other animals attracting singles’ eyes include rabbits and fish, loved by seven per cent, while one in 25 looked for a lover with either a horse or pet bird.
Women are slightly more likely than men to seek out a pet-owning date while Glasgow is the UK’s top town for pet-loving singles, as almost two thirds of daters look for dates with animal-loving profiles.
However, owning a gerbil, snake or ferret could put off potential partners as under one per cent of singles were keen on these critters, the Censuswide survey showed.
FROM dating apps to WhatsApps, tech has reshaped the way we form relationships. But the advent of AI has made it tougher to work out if a potential love interest is genuine, a catfisher or an out-and-out scammer.
Spotting AI use in dating profiles isn’t easy, but AI expert Christoph C. Cemper founder of AIPRM shares his top tips on the telltale signs. He said: “Finding love is a uniquely human experience—no algorithm can replace that spark of connection.”
Copy & Paste Casanovas
Words which feel generic and could apply to anyone are often signs that a profile or message has been penned by AI. If the conversation lacks depth and seems to follow a scripted pattern, you might be chatting with a chatbot instead of a genuine single. Real humans bring their quirks and individuality to the table, so watch out for those cookie-cutter responses. AI may also struggle to provide natural responses to specific questions. If you notice consistently generic answers, it could be a sign that you're interacting with a program rather than a person.
TIP: “Try asking a complex or abstract question that requires genuine thought. If the response seems too perfect or avoids the question entirely, it might be a sign of AI struggling with nuanced human interaction.”
Playing ‘Mix & Match’ With The Facts
While AI can generate responses based on vast datasets, it sometimes struggles to maintain a consistent narrative. Think of it as trying to piece together a puzzle with mismatched pieces - it might look complete from afar, but up close, you'll notice the cracks. So, if you're encountering a profile that's as consistent as a magic 8-ball, with answers changing faster than the weather forecast, you might be facing off against an AI in disguise
TIP: Remember, humans are complex creatures with nuanced personalities, so trust your instincts if something feels off.
Picture-Perfect Profiles
Does every photo look like it's been plucked straight from a magazine cover? Is the bio flawlessly articulate without a typo in sight? While we all strive for perfection, an AI-generated profile might just take it to the next level. Look out for unnaturally perfect profiles that seem too good to be true. AI-generated profiles may use stock photos or images that look ‘off’ in some way. For example, if the photos seem too perfect or lack the candid imperfections of everyday life, it could be a sign of AI involvement.
TIP: It’s always a good idea to run a Google image search on profile pictures to see if they appear on stock photo websites.
Rapid-Fire Replies
Have you ever messaged someone at 3AM only to receive an instant response? While we'd all love to believe in the existence of night owls with lightning-fast reflexes, it's more likely that you're interacting with a bot programmed to respond at any hour. Keep an eye out for suspiciously prompt replies.
TIP: If responses come instantly, especially to complex questions, without any indication of consideration or thought, it could suggest automation, rather than a person with a genuine interest in getting to know you.
Conversational Whiplash
If the conversation takes unexpected shifts or the ‘person’ you are talking with doesn't respond appropriately to changes in topic or tone, it could be AI. Bots might struggle with context and may respond in ways that seem out of place in a human conversation.
TIP: Real people can also exhibit some of these traits, and with AI becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is getting harder and harder to distinguish. Always approach online interactions with a balance of curiosity and caution.”
Young singles are getting into dating debt of around £2,250 because they are feeling pressured to keep up with lavish meals, mini-breaks and designer gifts other couples are boasting about on social media.
A box of chocolates, a bunch of flowers, aftershave or perfume is no longer enough to impress a potential new partner. Now young lovebirds feel a date has to be picture perfect and Insta-envy inducing – even if they cannot afford it.
A study of 2,000 18–35-year-olds by Experian, found that for 59 per cent of young people, social media influence has contributed to expectations to overspend on their partner or date, and almost two-thirds believe social media has led people to date for materialistic reasons over love.
Almost two in four men said they’d browsed a potential date’s social media profile to check if they could afford their lifestyle compared to 28 per cent of women and 1 in 20 men have even ended up over £10,000 in debt from funding dates and relationships.
Experian’s research found a quarter of young people who had gone into debt because of dating had racked up bills of up to £1,000 while 14 per cent had spent between £2,501 - £5,000 more than they could afford.
Tp help young daters manage their money , Experian has launched a new podcast series, 'The Cost of Loving', hosted by Celebs Go Dating expert and relationships therapist Anna Williamson.
Anna Williamson said: “Navigating the world of dating and relationships is pretty tough as it is, without factoring in the divisive debates around finances that we’re seeing on social media."
NAUGHTY northerners top the league for extramarital affairs this winter. Salford is the city most likely to see married people cheat, while neighbouring Manchester is second-placed.
The annual study from married dating site, Ashley Madison revealed Newcastle-upon-Tyne tool the third spot for illicit affairs.
Coastal city Bournemouth was the first southern town, ranking in fourth place, with Sussex seaside town Brighton in fifth.
Aberdeen and Glasgow were the only Scottish towns to be placed in the top 20, at 11 and 18 in the cheaters table.
Salford was previously crowned the top hotspot for summer affairs too.
Christoph Kraemer, MD Europe for Ashley Madison, said “It is highly unusual that a city earns top spots both in our summer and winter ranking of most unfaithful cities.”
HALF of adults plan to have much more sex in 2024, a new report reveals.
While the cost of living crisis saw many Brits too stressed for sex in 2023, 46 per cent of adults in a relationship will prioritise extra loving this year.
A further 27 per cent want to experiment with more sex positions and toys.
However, Brits are shunning casual encounters as 43 per cent of singles want to find a lasting relationship in the next 12 months.
Daters aged under 40 are most likely to quiz potential partners on the number of people they have previously slept with, with 60 per cent asking the question. Millennials were most likely to have had more than eight sexual partners, with 14 per cent admitting to multiple lovers.
However 46 per cent of singles say they don’t judge a potential partner by their sexual history, the study from dating site eHarmony found.
Despite this, 52 per cent feel an orgasm is very important, and almost a quarter have ended a relationship because they couldn’t orgasm with their partner.
Eharmony relationship expert Dr Lalitaa, said: “In a society where discussing sex openly isn't always encouraged, many of us might face challenges when it comes to communicating our sexual desires.
The Dating Directory news page brings you the latest news and service launches and keeps you in the loop about the world of dating!
MattR Dating app Founder Jamie Johnston, who suffers from ADHD, said: “I know how much pressure dating puts on someone’s mental health, especially the traditional setting of a dinner, movie or bar. They are sometimes over-stimulating at a time when someone is nervous anyway.”
1. If you have social anxiety: Consider a date at comedy show or a cookery class. Both of these activities provide anxious people with a task to occupy the brain and minimise the risk of overthinking.
2. If alcohol is a trigger for you: Go to a museum or zoo/ They are often sensory-rich environments that provide plenty of conversation starters, while also offering a load of distractions.
3. If you have food-related anxiety: A walk in the park is an ideal first date. It’s not too intense with eye contact, as you’re usually both facing forwards, you can easily leave if you need to or extend the date if it’s going well.
4. If you experience major highs when nervous: Consider doing something active - maybe a fitness class, dates or bowling. These activities offer a simple yet physical distraction for heightened nerves and also mean there’s less of a chance for any awkward silences.
5. If you’re prone to panicking: Make sure you do something that is totally within your control - maybe playing a board or video game virtually. It’s fun, stimulating and provides a topic of conversation if you panic when it comes to talking about yourself.
6. Remember: Keep activities relatively short and allow for breaks if needed to prevent overstimulation or restlessness. Communicate openly about your needs and preferences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable date.
