Brits socialising less – with six in 10 missing their friends because lack of time spent with them

BRITS are socialising less - with six in 10 missing their friends because of lack of time.

A poll of 2,007 adults found 59 per cent wish they could see their pals more regularly - and 18 per cent admit they've socialised less often during the past six months.

And it appears their dedication to their career is a major sticking point - almost half (47 per cent) of those who work have had more work commitments during the past 12 months compared to the year prior.

But it's not just their jobs which are hampering social lives - a perceived lack of time generally (27 per cent) is also stopping them having their friends round.

Other barriers include how far away they live from one another (33 per cent) and lack of confidence when it comes to hosting (15 per cent).

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; hosting or being invited to a friend’s - good food, good drinks, good people - heaven."

The study found 84 per cent think it's "important" to spend meaningful time with friends and family.

However, 54 per cent 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 per cent - also said they consider hosting to be "challenging" which might explain this possible reluctance to have people around.

But it's not just hosting, 37 per cent 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 per cent) and transportation struggles (18 per cent).

However, there is a desire among many of those polled to overcome such barriers - with 29 per cent keen for tips on how to successfully host.

On 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."