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Single Brits looking for a ‘handcuff partner’ to enjoy the winter festivities with
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Single Brits looking for a ‘handcuff partner’ to enjoy the winter festivities with

Four of the ten singles are looking for a significant other to brave the chill of “handcuff season” after a sizzling summer of fun-filled escapades with friends.

A research survey of 1,000 potential dating adults revealed that 40% long for a partner to chill out with in winter rather than brave the cold alone.

While 35% reveled in the single life during the sunny months, a huge third are now desperate to find a cuddle mate as the frosty weather sets in.

Equally keen for companionship, a third of respondents expressed a desire for a date to ring in the New Year with, and 29% ago, some are looking for someone to enjoy the joys of the festive season.

Those lucky enough to find a mate during the season will often indulge in a nearly four-month “trial” before deciding whether their new fling is a long-term date. In all honesty, 30% said their “handcuffed” affair will likely be scrapped when the warmth of spring begins to bloom.

When it comes to finding the perfect winter partner, the survey found that 27% favored digital dating through dating platforms and social media, compared to 23% who prefer the traditional meeting in bars or clubs.

However, despite going through nearly 20 profiles per session on such apps, 24% revealed they had not met in real life after a successful digital match.

According to the survey, the ideal partner for this “shackle season” should have a good sense of humor, respond promptly to messages and not snore. The biggest rifts were identified as disrespect or lack of kindness and poor hygiene.

Mobile phone provider Giffgaff, the instigator of the study, has launched its cuffing tariff to keep those romantic embers burning. The mobile network’s Sophie Wheater beamed: “There’s something special about sharing winter traditions and warm moments with someone by your side.”

The mobile provider has also teamed up with Lovehoney’s sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight to offer top tips on how to add some excitement using online platforms and understand your own sexual wellbeing.

With two-thirds of respondents planning to engage in sexting and phone sex this season, Annabelle said: “Sexual wellness is especially important during hookup season, from understanding your own needs and desires to fostering clear communication and respectful with a partner”.

“This time often brings a flurry of new relationships, people looking for warmth and companionship, and clear consent helps both you and your partner feel safe and relaxed, leading to better connections and a more pleasant experience overall.”