Letter: The nuclear family just cannot cope
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: On behalf of all my thirty-something single friends and relations, I challenge the comments reported by Ian Burrell ("Singles at risk from drinking and suicide", 28 October).
Being single in Britain in the 1990s does not mean a miserable existence.There are many of us "singles" who are thoroughly content with their lifestyle, many of whom actually choose to live the way they do. In fact many married friends have expressed envy over my independence.
I have a very busy social life and a busy job, and do not have a chance to "spend time alone in my room". None of my single friends or relations are suicidal, depressed or heavy drinkers. On a Saturday I do sometimes treat myself to a take-away but this is a luxury, not a necessity.
The "hidden misery" of those not living in couples is totally unrealistic.
CLARE FOSTER
Cheddington, Buckinghamshire
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments