The number of people getting married in Scotland is increasing every year – here’s why
Did you know that Scotland is experiencing a significant rise in the number of marriages being conducted? Wedding bells have been on trend and rising over the past few years. In 2020, despite the pandemic, the number of marriages conducted in Scotland increased by 15% from the previous year, according to the National Records of Scotland. The reasons behind wedding fever taking over include changes in societal attitudes towards marriage, an ageing population, and new legal provisions that make marriage more accessible to a wider range of people.
One of the primary reasons for the rising number of legal marriages in Scotland is the change in societal attitudes towards marriage. In the past, marriage was considered a more traditional and conventional institution, and many couples choose just to live together instead. However, recent surveys suggest that there has been a shift in attitudes, and many people now view marriage as a more desirable option. This shift in perception is particularly prevalent amongst the younger generation, who are now more likely to see marriage as an essential aspect of their relationships. And there’s no doubt that marriage gives you more rights if things go wrong than simply living together.
Another factor contributing to the rising number of legal marriages in Scotland is the ageing population. As people are living longer, they are also more likely to enter into a marriage or civil partnership later in life. In addition, many people who have been previously married or in a long-term relationship and have found someone new may want to formalise their relationship. Considering a prenuptial agreement is really important if you’re tying the knot a second time around, especially if you want to protect assets to pass on to children from your first marriage.
Furthermore, the introduction of new legal provisions in Scotland has made marriage more accessible to same-sex couples. The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 legalized same-sex marriage in Scotland, which means that couples who were previously unable to marry can now do so rather than entering a civil partnership. Previous civil partnerships can also be converted to marriages. This legal change has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the number of legal marriages in Scotland and is a welcome development in a modern and equal country.
In conclusion, the rising number of legal marriages in Scotland is a multifaceted trend, reflecting changes in societal attitudes towards marriage, an ageing population, and new legal provisions that make marriage more accessible.
While some may see this trend as a reflection of a more conservative social outlook, it is clear that marriage still holds an important place in the hearts of many Scots.