A man in his late thirties has turned to the internet for advice, expressing his growing frustration at an apparent scarcity of single women who share his dream of starting a family.
The Search for a Like-Minded Partner
The 38-year-old, who posted on Reddit's 'UK relationship advice' forum, explained he is actively navigating the dating scene with the clear intent of finding a long-term partner and becoming a parent. He described a consistent pattern in his experiences, stating that most women he meets, whether in their early or mid-thirties, do not want to have children.
"Where are all the single ladies in their thirties who want to have kids?" he asked the online community. He clarified his position, emphasising that he seeks a meaningful relationship and active involvement in parenting, not just fathering children for its own sake.
A Wider Societal Shift
This personal dilemma reflects broader demographic changes. While starting a family was once a common life goal, desire and rates have been declining. According to BBC analysis, twice as many 18- to 25-year-olds now say they don’t want children compared to 15 years ago (15% vs 7-8%).
A major United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) survey in 2025, involving over 14,000 people, found that for many, the issue is a "lack of choice, not desire". More than half (54%) of respondents cited economic concerns as a primary reason for not having kids, while 24% mentioned health issues.
Clashing Priorities in Modern Dating
The man's post sparked a lively discussion, revealing a complex landscape of modern relationships. One commenter suggested many women are putting more thought into motherhood and may be unhappy with their dating experiences with men. Another user claimed to have the opposite problem, stating that every woman he meets seems to want children, which doesn't align with his life plan.
Some responses pointed to timing as a critical factor. One person recounted meeting a man in his forties who wanted to date for at least five years before considering children, a timeline they felt would have "timed them out" biologically.
This single man's quest underscores a significant challenge for those seeking partnership based on shared future goals, as economic pressures, personal choice, and shifting social norms continue to reshape the landscape of love and family in the UK.
