Polyamory, the practice of having multiple intimate relationships with the knowledge and consent of all parties involved, is becoming more and more visible in the UK. While it may still be considered a relatively niche lifestyle choice, there is growing evidence to suggest that polyamory is more common than many people might think.
According to a 2019 survey by YouGov, 7% of UK adults said that they had been in a consensual non-monogamous relationship at some point in their lives. This is a significant increase from a similar survey conducted in 2015, which found that only 2% of UK adults had been in a non-monogamous relationship. The same survey found that 23% of UK adults had been open to the idea of non-monogamy, suggesting that the number of people exploring polyamory could continue to grow in the coming years.
While these statistics are encouraging for the polyamorous community, it’s important to note that there is still a significant amount of stigma and discrimination faced by those who practice non-monogamy. Polyamorous individuals may face judgment from friends, family, and coworkers, as well as a lack of understanding and acceptance from wider society.
There are, however, a number of resources available for polyamorous individuals in the UK. Online communities and support groups can provide a space for individuals to connect and share their experiences, and there are a number of events and festivals that cater to the polyamorous community. There are also legal advice services that specialise in polyamory, which can help individuals navigate the legal considerations and challenges associated with non-monogamous relationships.
Despite the growing visibility of polyamory in the UK, there are still a number of misconceptions and myths surrounding the practice. One common misconception is that polyamorous relationships are inherently unstable or lacking in commitment. However, research has shown that polyamorous individuals are often just as committed to their partners as monogamous individuals, and that communication and honesty are key to maintaining healthy relationships.
Another myth is that polyamory is all about sex. While sexual relationships are an important aspect of many polyamorous relationships, they are not the only focus. Many polyamorous individuals prioritise emotional connection and intimacy, and may have multiple partners with whom they share deep emotional bonds.
It’s also worth noting that there is no one “right” way to practice polyamory. Every individual and relationship is unique, and there are many different styles and approaches to non-monogamy. Some polyamorous individuals may have multiple romantic and sexual partners, while others may prioritise emotional connections and companionship over physical intimacy.
In conclusion, while polyamory may still be considered a niche lifestyle choice in the UK, there is growing evidence to suggest that it is more common than many people might think. While polyamorous individuals may face stigma and discrimination, there are a number of resources available to support them in navigating the challenges associated with non-monogamous relationships. It’s important to remember that there is no one “right” way to practice polyamory, and that communication, honesty, and mutual consent are key to maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships.