The price of starting again

Ending a relationship and starting life afresh can cost an individual thousands of pounds, new research suggests.

According to a study commissioned by Standard Life Bank, 8.5 million people in Britain have had to start again and have spent an average of £20,000 each. The findings of the research also show that the financial impact of a separation is as stressful, and sometimes even more stressful, to three quarters of Brits (83 per cent) than the emotional aspect of a break-up.

However, it was also found that over half (57 per cent) of those who had started again after a failed relationship found their second life to be more fulfilling than their first, and interestingly it was also revealed that two-thirds of British people in the 35 to 65 age group would like to start their life again so that they may find a more rewarding relationship or career.

Ashley Ramsay, trends expert for Standard Life Bank, said: "There is a lot at stake when starting again, be it a relationship or career move, and having financial peace of mind when your life is in upheaval means one less problem to worry about. Getting financial planning advice to explore all the alternatives is the first place to start."