Research shows that loyalty is the most valued trait in a partner, with 47% of respondents citing faithfulness as the most important attribute. A good sense of humour is more important than ever, with 43% of the UK selecting this as a top valued trait in a partner. When it comes to the difference between men and women, 40% of men value a sense of humour in a partner over loyalty (38%) and kindness (36%). In contrast, women value loyalty (55%) and honesty (48%) in a partner more than anything else, even over a sense of humour and/or appearance.
Top values Brits are looking for in a future partner
| Value | Percentage |
| Loyalty | 47% |
| Honesty | 46% |
| Sense of humour | 43% |
| Kindness | 39% |
| Similar interests | 24% |
| Appearance | 19% |
| Patience | 15% |
| Intellect | 15% |
For anyone struggling with date ideas over the coming weeks, our research found that Dinner Dates are the UK’s most popular first date of choice. Restaurants were revealed as the top location for potential lovebirds with 38% of respondents selecting this option. Theatres, museums and galleries came in at the bottom of the leader board with only 8% of respondents selecting a museum or gallery as an ideal first date. Interestingly, park dates still have lasting popularity after lockdown, with 22% of UK respondents selecting this option.
After a year like no other, Legal & General’s research proves that the search for a perfect life partner hasn’t slowed down. Our survey found that 57% of the UK’s single adults are now more open to a serious relationship since the pandemic.
Rachel Maclynn, founder of The Vida Consultancy and Chartered Psychologists said:
“Finding a partner has become more important than ever. From a psychological perspective loyalty is an emotional concept, but it provides security which tends to be one of the most important needs when people think about significant relationships. Infidelity threatens the security of a relationship so prioritizing this in your future partner’s values is unsurprising.”
Legal & General Insurance Direct Managing Director Paula Llewellyn also commented:
“Whilst love lives were put on hold for many, it is clear that Covid-19 has changed the way we feel about future relationships. The majority of Brits are now looking for loyalty and a serious relationship with a future partner which feels somewhat inevitable after such an uncertain and isolating year.”
See more about this research HERE.
