Brits are socialising less – with six in 10 missing their friends due to a lack of time, a study has found. A poll of 2,007 adults found 59 percent wish they could see their pals more regularly – and 18 percent admit they’ve socialised less often during the past six months.
And it appears their dedication to their career is a major sticking point – as almost half of those in employment (47 percent) have had more work commitments during the past 12 months, compared to the year prior.
However, it’s not just their jobs which are hampering social lives – a perceived lack of time generally (27 percent) is also stopping them having their friends round.
Other barriers include how far away they live from one another (33 percent), and a lack of confidence when it comes to hosting (15 percent).
The research was commissioned by single malt Scotch whisky brand, The Singleton, which has partnered with Jessie Ware and Monica Galetti to show how to it’s done – by hosting a gathering of their own at Monica’s central London-based restaurant, Mere.
Guests to the event earlier this week included fashion designers Daniel Fletcher and Henry Holland, Table Manners Podcast host, Lennie Ware, presenter Yasmin Evans, Masterchef’s Gregg Wallace, and bestselling author Candice Brathwaite.
Jessie Ware said: “For me, there is nothing better than a good dinner party, either hosting or being invited to a friend’s – good food, good drinks, good people – heaven.”
The study found 84 percent think it’s “important” to spend meaningful time with friends and family. However, 54 percent haven’t had their loved ones round for food and drinks since October 2022 – almost a year and a half.
Interestingly, the same percentage (54 percent) also said they consider hosting to be “challenging” – which might explain this possible reluctance to have people around.
But it’s not just hosting, as 37 percent haven’t attended any such gatherings at other people’s homes in the past 17 months, either.
Further obstacles include not having a reason to get together (10 percent), and transportation struggles (18 percent).
However, there is a desire among many of those polled to overcome such barriers – with 29 percent keen for tips on how to successfully host.
Speaking about why she likes to end the evening with a whisky, Monica Galetti said: “Whether it’s with dessert, or after everyone has finished up and we’re just sitting around together talking, it just makes those last moments of the night feel truly special.”
