The average Brit spends just 4 hours a month socialising with friends – meeting up just twice
THE average Briton now spends just four hours a month socialising with friends – meeting up just twice in that period, according to research.
More than a quarter (27 per cent) of the 2,000 adults polled said they are spending less time in person with friends this year compared to last.
The trend is most pronounced among millennials aged 25 to 34, where 37 per cent are struggling to find time for their pals compared to just 33 per cent of 35 to 44 year-olds.
In fact, Gen-Zs aged 18 to 24 are the only age group spending more time with pals this year as opposed to less (36 per cent versus 31 per cent).
The top three reasons for not spending more time with friends are distance (36 per cent), a busy work schedule (35 per cent), and family commitments (33 per cent).
Overall, 51 per cent of those with kids under 18 spend just one collective hour a week socialising with friends in person – with 35 per cent meeting them only once a month.
As Christmas approaches, 31 per cent are on a mission to change this, planning to spend some quality time with friends three times a week on average.
But it is those with children eager to mix it up, as two in five (40 per cent) plan to get in more catch-ups with friends – accepting just two precious moments during the entire month as a blessing.
Andrea Burchett, chief loyalty officer and managing director at Virgin Red, which commissioned the research to mark its giveaway of 1,000 rewards at Westfield White City, said: “The festive period is often about spending time with loved ones.
“It’s the reason people travel across the country – or even the world – to share moments together.
“While many people struggle to find the time to get together over the year, it’s great to see many are planning to make extra effort this festive season to reconnect with friends and family.”
The most popular things to do with friends include having a meal together (59 per cent), drink a cup of tea (49 per cent) – or go to the pub (45 per cent).
But 58 per cent want to try and experience new things together as they felt it would create stronger bonds between them.
And more than one in 10 (12 per cent) admitted to wanting to share quiet time with their best friend over partners.
The distance is what stops people socialising with friends the most (36 per cent), followed by a busy work schedule (35 per cent), according to the OnePoll.com figures.
The Points Board will be live for one day only (Thursday 9 November 2023) at Westfield White City, with rewards including a flights to New York, South Africa and an afternoon tea for two.
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